Here’s a great idea that embodies the old-fashioned American character trait of self-reliance: Timebanks. Rather than ask “What can the government do for me?” these groups are effecting positive change on a local level. Instead of looking for a hand-out, individuals are giving a hand to other individuals -in a mutually beneficial way. It reminds me of that great old pioneer custom of barn raising: I’ll help you build yours – and you help me build mine. And then we’ll all sit down and enjoy a good meal together!

Neighbors helping neighbors – what a concept! Why doesn’t the Community-Organizer-in-Chief help organize communities like this?

I’m glad to see that this trend is catching on in my home state of Michigan. If we could really grow this into a huge national movement, just think how much we could shrink the government.