That seems like a fairly pragmatic solution, doesn’t it? If there is a problem in my life, or in your life, or in the lives of those around us, just don’t notice it … ignore the reality … pretend that it doesn’t exist. Maybe it will go away.

This practice of ignoring a problem is captured in a commonly used Spanish expression, an expression that can take on many forms, such as:

• Si hay pobreza, que no se note. If there is poverty, just don’t notice it.
• Si hay corrupción, que no se note. If there is corruption, just don’t notice it.
• Si hay hambre, que no se note. If there is hunger, just don’t notice it.
• Si hay marginación, que no se note. If there is marginalization, just don’t notice it.

Some people believe that there are way too many problems in this world, and the need is far too great. They say to themselves, “Anything I might do, any help I might offer, any money I might give, won’t make any real difference in the grand scheme of things.”

But is ignoring a problem the best solution?

About the only time that tactic works is when we are focusing too much on a perceived problem, one that remains a problem only through our continued focus on it.

At all other times, don’t fall into the trap of “just don’t notice it.” Face the problem, and do what you can to alleviate the problem … remembering that every little bit helps.

My family has started a little fundraising page to help alleviate, just a little, the poverty experienced in Guatemala. Check it out at http://www.firstgiving.com/spanish.

And thanks for all the little things you do.