Ian, a 20-year-old homeless wanderer I met in New York City, said of his panhandling:

"I think of it like a ‘karmic bank.’ When I have [money or food, etc.], I give it to others. Then, when I need it, I make a withdrawal."

Isn’t that the way most of us operate in one way or another? Whether founded on a belief in God, the ultimate unity of the universe, or absolute materialism, most of us live life like someone is keeping score: If I do more good than bad, I win.

The question, of course, centers on the bad. After all, if we as human beings recognize wrong, if we understand that we are always supposed to do what is morally right, what justification can we offer for our failures?

"It’s not like I’ve killed anyone." Oh, and like murder is the only action warranting punishment.

"I’m only human." So, if humans everywhere were jumping off cliffs, would you follow suit?

"Morals are determined by society." Sounds like a cop-out to soothe a sore conscience.

"I can’t help myself." At least this response is honest, even if it only indirectly addresses the problem: individual responsibilty.

After all, if there is someone keeping score, how do you know what the standard is? And how do you know if you live up to it? Sounds like an awfully chancy way to live . . .