The local United Way office realized that it had never received a donation from the town's most successful lawyer, so a volunteer was sent to solicit¹ his donation.

"Sir, you have a successful law practice. You must be worth millions. Surely you could give back a little to your community through The United Way."

The lawyer said, "First, are you aware that my mother is dying from a long, painful illness? And that she has medical bills far beyond her ability to pay?"

Embarrassed, the United Way rep mumbled², "Uh, no."

"Second, did you know my brother, a disabled veteran, is blind, confined to a wheelchair, and unable to support his wife and six children?"

The stricken United Way rep mumbled another, "Uh, no."

"Third, do you realize that my sister's husband died in a dreadful traffic accident leaving her penniless, with a huge mortgage and three young children?"

The United Way rep was humiliated³. "No, sir. I had no idea."

The lawyer concluded, "Well, then. If I don't give any money to them, why do you think I'd give any to you?!"