The Daily Devotion: There's Nothing Wrong with Abudance

Today marked the third year of my blissful, challenging and rewarding marriage with my beautiful, intelligent and supportive wife. And, thanks to two very kind friends, we were given a gift card for Houston's newest, premier sushi restaurant, Uchi.

Each time I pull out my most expensive digs from the closet, which aren't really that expensive and/or were usually gifted, I'm ever reminded of how truly uncomfortable I feel dressing up and going "out to dinner". Nonetheless, this sense of unease melted upon seeing the absolutely stunning woman I'm lucky enough to call my wife.

So, with an energetic burst in my step (likely an unconscious effect of my belly's anticipation) and Cristina at my side, I was ready to indulge, celebrate and savor a few tasty brews. Then, moments before reaching the door, a homeless man approach and asked for "a few dollars" - to which I offer a stock "I don't have any cash" answer as I simultaneously pressed my palms into the sides of my jean pockets.

I fully agree that there's nothing wrong with abundance, especially when its received and honored with an equally full and generous heart. Yet, as I thumbed over a wine list with a succession of $400+ bottles, I also couldn't help but reflect upon those I've worked with through In-Powered by OSA - particularly, those men still in the prison unit. My mind began to ponder and consider a reoccurring the thought. In fact, it was the very same thought that has crept up as I've continued to watch quaint bungalows in my Montrose neighborhood being demolished at incredible speed only to be replaced by very typical (and very pricey) "McMansions".

Now before you go summoning Ayn Wand back from the grave, know that I'm simply reflecting, not judging or even considering "fixing" anything. I'm simply processing something that I've never experienced before in my life: A significant imbalance between the "haves" and the "have nots".

I grew up in a small, rural Canadian town that was made up primarily of people of relatively similar (or at least comparable) incomes. Moreover, gross levels of coexisting poverty and prosperity - sometimes merely blocks away from each other - were not a significant issue in my childhood town. Again, with all of this in mind, it's unfair to compare Belleville, Ontario, Canada to Houston, Texas, USA.

Although I cannot completely figure out why, I have a welling message that's bubbling deep within the recesses of my mind. This message, which I originally heard from a First Nation's high school councilor in Ontario, says, "Progress is the enemy of culture, culture is the enemy of progress." I'm still wondering where the notion of personal abundance fits into that particular equation. I'm also wondering if the burning of these questions will ever subside.