As 2010 moves into full swing, I hope that the new year is off to a wonderful start for you and your loved ones. 

 

I began 2010 with a visit to the optometrist’s office, being fitted for first-time eye glasses. In retrospect, probably the biggest shock from the experience was the news of the sum both eye glasses and lenses would set me back financially. While sitting in the doctor’s office I calculated exactly how many developing world businesses could be started with the cost of my new eyewear.

When you think about it, there are numerous expenses in our daily lives, both discretionary and fixed, for which the same standard of measure could be applied. A hundred dollar bill has never looked the same to me since the time I became aware that as little as this amount can forever change the life of a developing world family by providing it with the necessary capital to start a small business.

 

In Ghana, Elizabeth Yeboah’s life has radically changed since receiving her one hundred dollar small business loan from GBA. I had the privilege of visiting Elizabeth and her small cooking enterprise in November. While her business did not look like much initially, I was amazed to hear the story of how Elizabeth was now able to provide for her family, thanks to GBA’s small business loan and her hard work.

 

Elizabeth has big plans for 2010. Since she has proven her faithfulness in repayment, even larger second and third level loans are now available. Elizabeth has plans to expand her business to include a seating area for customers — a complete restaurant! All of this began with a one hundred dollar bill. 

 

.	Your one hundred dollar investment into his mother’s business could help this young child attend school

In 2010 I have resolved to try to look at the money in my personal life differently. I have come to realize that a one hundred dollar bill in my hands is a powerful tool. Living in America, it may not seem like much, but just like my vision prior to new glasses, that perspective is short-sighted.

 

What if every one hundred dollar bill I touched in the New Year had a name on it – right above the picture of Ben Franklin? This name would be a person, or maybe even a family in the developing world whose life would be changed if that capital was within his or her grasp. I am convinced that I would be a better steward of my resources if continually confronted with a visual reminder of the impact my money could be having if invested in a different direction. 

 

I resolve in 2010, even with my perceived limited earnings, to recognize the immense power of a single one hundred dollar bill. Will you join me this New Year in looking at your God-given resources in a new way?

 

I am looking forward to soon sharing with you amazing news of something that will greatly expand Global Business Assist’s capacity for doing its work around the world. But for now, let me simply say that we rely upon your assistance more than ever.    

 

Thank you for your continued partnership this new year. Together we can change the world, one hundred dollars at a time, as we look at our financial resources through new eyes in 2010. 

 

Douglas Mann