News Story Point of View

   My name is Julia Wise and I am a social worker. I am married to a software engineer, Jeff Kaufman who is my best friend. My husband and I earn a nice living with our salaries put together. Combined, we make approximately $245,000 per year. Most people would love to earn this type of money to spend on expensive clothes, cars, and vacations. However, we spend our money differently.
    From a young age, I was taught that giving was better than receiving. This value still holds true to me. As a social worker, I am consistently helping people. However, I wanted to do more. When Jeff and I got married, we decided that we could give more to help others. My husband and I only live off of approximately $15,000 of our income. Where does the rest go? Well, the rest of our income goes to charity. We have been donating money to charity for 7 years.
     Most people think that we are crazy and are probably unhappy with our lives. However, I beg to differ. Giving is one of the best feelings I have ever experienced. It feels good to put someone else's needs before my own. I am still able to live comfortably and enjoy my life, while helping others. Living way below my means has taught me to enjoy the simple aspects of life and appreciate what I do have. I consider myself very fortunate to be in a position to help others.
       The decision to give so much to charity has not always been an easy one. There have been times when Jeff and I considered spending our money to get fancy clothes and take expensive vacations. We sometimes let people's opinions cause us to second guess our decision. However, we know what we are doing is right. Although Jeff and I have had our share of financial struggles, I would not want to live any other way. Everyday, I am able to wake up and realize that I have made a difference in the lives of many people.
      Being selfless and giving to others are characteristics that I want to pass down to my children and grandchildren. I want them to get the most out of life and giving to others will help them do so. My life would not be fulfilled if I spent all of my money on my own needs and desires. I am truly happy with my life and am looking forward to what the future holds!