Tracy, yeah, that's what I'm really trying to figure out right now—if I have a "right" to have a problem with people living what I see as excessively luxurious lifestyles, or if such a focus could even potentially have a positive outcome. Sometimes I think it's really important to shine a light on it, other times I feel like I'm worrying about the wrong things. Your point about *how* people get this wealth, and who is being exploited in the process, is very important, though, without a doubt. Thanks for bringing it up. 

Archie, I'm glad to know someone else thinks the way we frame something can actually be a *response*! Sometimes I wonder, but other times I feel so sure of it—I feel like most of the problems of the world are rooted in our messed up perceptions of what's happening around us. What you said about "normal" rings very true: “'Normal' needs to shift and it starts when each of us puts another person just a few steps in front of us."

Sara, I'm glad this caught your attention and got you a bit riled up! Your economic and political muscles seemed ready to go and just waiting for a workout. :) A big amen to your thoughts about teaching compassion and social responsibility to our kids—yes, even in school! And I couldn't agree more with this: "I no longer believe that the wealth in this country is used to stimulate the economy and therefore provide more services/jobs for those in need." Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

Abby, I will definitely have to thank Chuck for pointing such a compassionate, sharp thinker to my blog. :) I was actually thinking about Habitat for Humanity when I was writing this post. Wouldn't it be great if everyone in the US had to help build a home for someone in need? Not just throw some money at the organization (although that's important, too) but actually put time and muscle into it, and see the need with their own eyes. But then how do we overcome the natural "us-them" problem? The idea that something is good enough for "them" but not for "me?" It's so complicated! (And yes—I have also felt that my home is too nice or too shabby, depending on the circumstances. So fascinating.)

Daisy, isn't it amazing how these "concepts" and "ideas" change when there are real people/faces/feelings to go with them? You see the reality in your classroom each day. Have you ever seen any truly helpful approaches to the problem, on a big or small scale? Just curious.