A local United Way office realized that the organization had never received a donation from the town’s most successful lawyer.
The person in charge of contributions called him to persuade him to contribute.
“Our research shows that out of a yearly income of at least $500,000, you give not a penny to charity.
Wouldn’t you like to give back to the community in some way ??”
The lawyer mulled this over for a moment and replied, “First, did your research also show that my mother is dying after a long illness, and has medical bills that are several times her annual income ??”
Embarrassed, the United Way rep mumbled, “Um … No.”
The lawyer interrupts, “...Or that my brother, a disabled veteran, is blind and confined to a wheelchair?”
The stricken United Way rep began to stammer out an apology, but was interrupted again.
“Did your research note that my sister’s husband died in a horrific accident,” (the lawyer’s voice rising in indignation), “leaving her penniless, with three young children?!”
The humiliated United Way rep, completely beaten, said simply, “I had no idea…”
On a roll, the lawyer cut him off once again ….
“SO,.... IF I DON’T GIVE ANY MONEY TO THEM, …..
…………… THEN WHY IN HELL SHOULD I GIVE ANY TO YOU??”