Can I make a difference?

In a world of hurricanes, wars, earthquakes, and epidemics; one has to wonder, "What can I do? " Most of us are not multi-millionaire philanthropists, experienced diplomats, or skilled doctors. We can't finance rebuilding efforts, mediate between hostile nations, or heal the sick. So, can we really make a difference?

A vacationing businessman was walking along a beach when he saw a young boy.
Along the shore were many starfish that had been washed up by the tide and were sure to die before the tide returned. The boy walked slowly along the shore and occasionally reached down and tossed a beached starfish back into the ocean. 

The businessman, hoping to teach the boy a little lesson in common sense, walked up to the boy and said, "I have been watching what you are doing, son. You have a good heart, and I know you mean well, but do you realize how many beaches there are around here and how many starfish are dying on every beach every day? Surely an industrious and kind hearted boy such as yourself could find something better to do with your time. Do you really think that what you are doing is going to make a difference?" 

The boy looked up at the man, and then he looked down at a starfish by his feet. He picked up the starfish, and as he gently tossed it back into the ocean, he said, "It makes a difference to that one."

-Author Unknown -

So, maybe you can't dole out wads of cash to good causes, but I bet you could give a little. Likely you won't be called to broker any peace treaties, but you might be able to help settle an argument between friends. And it doesn't take a doctor to fix chicken soup for an ailing family member, or visit a sick friend. Maybe our actions will make a big difference and maybe they won't, but "It makes a difference to that one."