In a local restaurant my server had on a 'Obama 08' tie. I was pleased, as he had given away his political preference-- just imagine the coincidence to come.

When the bill came I decided not to tip the server and explained to him that I was exploring the Obama 'redistribution of wealth' concept. He stood there in disbelief while I told him that I was going to redistribute his tip to someone who I deemed more in need--the homeless guy outside. The server angrily stormed from my sight.

I went outside, gave the homeless guy $10 and told him to thank the server inside as I had decided he could use the money more. The homeless guy was grateful.

At the end of my rather unscientific redistribution experiment, I realized the homeless guy was grateful for the money he did not earn, but the waiter was pretty angry that I gave away the money he did earn even, though the actual recipient needed the money more.

I guess redistribution of wealth is an easier thing to swallow in concept than in practical application.

Janet Niemi Chubb, DHSc, RN