A philosopher said, "A man is what he thinks." Healthy thinking determines the direction of life. One aspect is making wise choices, which includes employment, finances, relationships, diet, exercise, recreation and giving.

In our society, we tend to associate "giving" with money. The United States has many foundations and charitable trusts, which are the offshoot of people who have given money. And where would we be without them? Many financial experts' basic budgets include saving 10 percent and giving 10 percent of earnings. Ancient wisdom says if you give, men will give to you, more than you give. This is something to think about.

However, there is another kind of giving, giving of self: time and or energy. The common term is volunteering. Some volunteering is court ordered. That is generally the result of a person's unhealthy thinking.

How does volunteering relate to healthy thinking? Volunteering can come from a thankful heart. It can come from a perceptive heart that sees others' needs. It can come from having experienced need or pain that others now experience.

Studies show that people who learn to volunteer in their youth are much more likely to volunteer as adults. Summer break from school is coming. Now is the time to begin thinking and planning interesting volunteer activities for young people. It will take research. Many agencies have age and/or parental supervision requirements.

Here's an idea for a family volunteer project. Volunteer in a park! Parks often can use volunteers to