Week 12

This week was a good reminder that we all have wants and needs no matter our circumstance.  We all have a responsibility to care for each other and be wise stewards of our money.  This week reminded me of a conversation I once had with Larry Miller, a well-known, wealthy business man in my community.  I was thanking him for the support he had given to the organization and his comment to me was that as he had been blessed financially he felt God expected him to be a good steward of that money.  Which to him meant that he use his money to care for others.  It was the first time I had seen that side of a wealthy individual.  This week’s readings showed me exactly what Miller was talking about.  It is possible to be wealthy and also be humble.

Reading What’s a Business For and learning about the role virtue and integrity play in the economy you can see that being a wise steward of money goes beyond taking care of others through social issues.  To be successful an entrepreneur cannot focus solely on themselves, with all his/her efforts focused toward bringing in as much money as possible.  Being honest no matter what, making sure your boundaries are set to where you aren’t willing to cross the line, even a little bit, looking after those you serve or work for you all pay a part in having a business that not only succeeds but does so in manner that keeps you grounded and focused on what really matters. The economy is strong because of individuals caring for more than themselves.  Having a strong business is created through a sense of being aware of others.  Knowing your customers, their likes, dislikes, needs.  Caring about your employees, making sure you are compensating them well, letting them know they are valued, that you appreciate and encourage their input.  All this moves you toward a business that is not only successful but you have many who are invested in your success, they have buy in and in the end want the business to succeed.