Really, the children in this movie were magnificent.

And, knowing that there has been some controversy

about that...when isn't there controversy?...I can only

hope that this raises the awareness level, in the U.S.

(and elsewhere), that there is much to be done before

we rid the world of poverty. Maybe it's time to really

rethink our values (easier now, with the new economy

nipping at our heels)...roll our sleeves up and do

something about all this. Melinda Gates seems to be.

Hoping she is the new trendsetter for our age.

We also find an excellent role model in April Rinne,

who's truly doing something to make the world a better

place. Microfinance might be something we all need to

know more about. It's beyond just benefiting us, isn't it?

Our eldest son, Andrew, is currently working at

Santa Clara University's excellent

Center for Science, Technology and Society,

which provides a unique forum that

encourages taking action on

these matters. I am

exceedingly proud of him.

We all are.

So: Big Question. Is this...

a better use of your time

than upgrading your

a) car

b) house

c) club membership

d) all of the above?

Just wondering.

A great time to look into it,

these days...

don't you think?