It’s hardly ever about saving kids from burning buildings. Or even about the yeoman work Bowser does for charity (yeah, I remember.)

It’s usually just helping somebody find an address. Doing research other people have trouble doing. Online computer fixes. Repairing some stuff around the house that an elderly person can’t fix. Giving a friend whose vision isn’t up to driving a ride to a clinic appointment. Changing a flat for somebody on the roadside. That’s a typical list for me. Nothing hard at all for the most part, and what the hell, I’ve got time, and a few useful skills.

In Jody’s case, just looking up some veteran’s aid phone numbers, or contacting an advisor and arranging meetings could be helpful, and maybe enough to get this lady on the right road.

95 percent of the time, being a little drop of oil in the clockwork of the universe doesn’t really take that much extra effort.

First, no one established the woman wanted, needed or asked for help. All we know is that her husband, a veteran, passed away.

Second, we do know, that as the widow of a veteran, there is a large and effective outreach program, people who know what programs are available, to whom they are available, and how to apply.

So we know the woman isn’t going to “crash and burn”.

We also know that even though Jody has a difficult time dealing with this woman, she intends to run the person’s life, not that she’s going to support her in a difficult time.

So is this a case of being needed or simply another case of trying to make oneself needed? We don’t know, we just have to gauge it by the situation and past history.

And, it’s none of my business. Absolutely none.

As far as my living with myself for refusing to help a friend in need, I’ll compare the time I spend with others with you, Jody or anyone on these boards. However, I tend strongly to work with people who are trying to help themselves, people for whom I’m appropriate and people who need it. I just wouldn’t go there were I you.

You will know it is me.

I am the one with my heart on my sleeve.

However, the temptation to be a hero or heroine is very strong.

Cheers.