Today's Most Critical Epidemic

I've just returned from a Jackson Rotary meeting, where I heard the speaker - Jason Wray, who organized an extreme home makeover for a dying Scott City Marine, say - "The largest epidemic today is apathy." His points were so well-taken and hit me where I live. When we become aware of human need, so often the first response is empathy: "I'm sorry to hear that," or "what a tough break." If we're more motivated, we say, "I'll say a prayer for you." Those first responses are good ones - but they are almost always the ONLY responses. Wray set in motion a concrete response to make over Matt Johnston's house - and like all of us, Wray's got a great deal on his plate, a thriving business that he founded and runs in Jackson. The response, involving many local companies who donated materials and over 200 individuals who gave of their time, is inspirational. Maybe the next time real human need crosses my path, I'll do more than be empathetic.