Early on, when I first established a nonprofit to provide cars to women in transition, I had an opportunity to explain a central tenet of the organization. One of our first recipients was a single mother of seven children. She was 29 years old.

The only reason I mention these statistics (especially as it relates to the quantity of her children) is because these facts about her circumstances were used by some as a cudgel against her and given as reasons why she didn’t “deserve” to get a car from the organization.

My answer to those who questioned it? There’s no Return On Investment  (ROI) in casting judgement. Rhetorically speaking, were we supposed to let this woman and her children circle the drain by refusing to extend her an opportunity to change her circumstances? How would our refusal to grant a vehicle contribute to a solution?

The simple answer is that it wouldn’t.

There have been many times in my past where I didn’t “deserve” a second chance. I am therefore eternally grateful for the gift of grace extended by those who were in a position of power, wealth and authority who saw in me possibility. Through them, I was given chances to alter my direction by changing my choices.

If we‘re collectively held to standards set by our stupidest behavior, we’re all doomed. None of us are perfect.

It is incumbent upon us to pay it forward, using the interest from the lessons we learn along the way. Giving from a position of strength never diminishes the whole. Ever. Even on the occasions when the second chance we extend gets mishandled or comes to naught, the opportunity cost of taking that calculated risk is worth it.

Excluding people from opportunity out of a sense of moral superiority and judgement restricts capacity. It reduces what’s possible. We all pay the price for selfishness and castigation.

That’s why, even now, I give what I can when I can in order to help move someone else forward.

The Return On Investment for showing kindness always pays dividends.

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