like "wolfsong" said-- "growing up,I was really in need of guidance ,support,and advice.I made a ton of mistakes...and really felt humbled when I found understanding or forgiveness. "

that's how it was for me and some children around me... when others did NOTHING it felt even MORE devastating... thus adding to the abuse that was already occuring.
I give and do because I know how much it would have meant to me to have someone care enough to help-- so I help. (I've volunteered-anonymously, in one realm or another, most of my whole adult life, since I turned 16)

I believe in that saying--- not doing is akin to not caring. to me it's hypocritical if one considers themself a caring person, when all they do is give something a "thought" and then go about their OWN life-- not really caring enough to help/make a difference.
I had a childhood of "talk" (how others were such "good" , "caring" people)... talk/thought is cheap-- "doing" is what helps to strengthen humanity and bonds with each other.

I always wondered just the opposite than you--terre--
How does the mind of one that doesn't care to get involved or help others work?... that is very foreign to me....
seems so cold, self centered -- (not saying you are that way, I don't know you or your personality)
it makes me think of some adults from my childhood- the ones that didn't want to help/get involved(I regard them as almost as bad as the abusers)-- the difference they made was a negative one, one that I will forever disdain them for.

I hope I've not offended anyone-- so NOT my intention-- all that I've said was about me and my life and those from my life-- not anyone here.

peace to all

fins