Posted by Mike Akins on June 26, 2000 at 02:41:14:
In Reply to: personal questions posted by Kirk T on June 26, 2000 at 00:26:54:
Hi Kirk,
Your questions are fine. I don't mind answering any honest question with an honest answer. I do live on 5% of my income. That is all I need to have to live as I desire. The rest of my income is divided between supporting the individuals who have assisted me in earning such a nice income, and with in supporting certain causes which are dear to my heart.
When you consider that I have 32 full-time staff members and more than 30 phone lines (and expenses thereof) you can quickly figure where the 60% goes.
The rest of my income is invested in ministering to disadvantaged children(both physically and spiritually) , the elderly who are suffering, and to the intellectuals who influence this country's future. Also, I support a nutritional therapy program for those who have illnesses that are either terminal or degenerative. There are individuals who would not be alive today if we did not provide the latest in cutting edge science for them.
You ask why I would choose to live on only 5% of my income. The answer is I have looked through the tears and into the eyes of the despaired. I have held the hands and kissed the forehead of the dying. I have heard the voices of the suffering. I can not do anything else but try in some little way to relieve some of this suffering, to give a little hope to the despaired, and give life to a darkened heart. I am compelled.
Generally, I say the least that I can about such things in a business setting. I do not feel I deserve any glory for what I do. I am fortunate to have what I have and to be able to share with the less fortunate. You have asked a fair question and I felt obligated to give you an honest answer.
Mike Akins