GIVING ALL YOU'VE GOT



More information about GIVING ALL YOU'VE GOT MAIN POINT Our use of money says a great deal about us, both in terms of our values and our feelings. This is especially true when we give money, or the things it can buy, to others. At times, we have terrific intentions, but we end up giving more than we can afford - or giving for the wrong reasons. For example, guilt over a past wrong can never be quick-fixed by material giving. By the same token, receiving gifts from others can be fraught with peril. Unfortunately, interpersonal problems sometimes interfere with clear thinking on these matters. Giving and receiving are often great tools for strengthening relationships, but when substituted for honest expressions of feelings and trust, they can actually hurt relationships. CHARACTERIZATION Steve is an intelligent newlywed in his mid-20s. He's a very sincere man who wants to be able to have a good relationship with his father. While he tries very hard to become regular friends with his dad, he is also quite frustrated with his father's tactics to win his affection and forgiveness. He should be played so that any average audience member would be able to sympathize with him. Gil is Steve's father, early 50s. He feels an enormous guilt over his divorce that occurred about 20 years ago. Unable to accept his two sons' forgiveness, he gives them expensive gifts, in hopes of redeeming himself. He is as frustrated a man as he is frustrating. He should be played as a fairly amiable fellow that one can never quite get through to. DIRECTOR'S NOTES 1) The actors should play this very naturally, not theatrically. The conversation should seem like it's real-life. 2) The blocking shouldn't be complex. With the exception of, perhaps, some small rises and crosses and exits, this is basically a sit-down conversation at a coffee shop. 3) The pacing varies. At points, there are some stressful pauses, but we'll also see a few rapid-fire conversations as the lines become more and more agitated. 4) Don't work too hard on building a sense of father-son camaraderie, even in the beginning bits when they appear to be getting along so well. From beginning to end, there is an ever-present stress on their relationship that doesn't fully rear its head until after the conversation is well under way. RELATED SCRIPTURES Proverbs 13:7-11 points out truths about stewardship and pretending to be wealthier than you really are. 2 Corinthians 8 discusses the sort of giving that pleases God. Luke 7:36-50 (Jesus is anointed by a sinful woman) is a great example of the real price of forgiveness, and how God deals with our guilt. RELATED THEMES This sketch is a good tool to discuss giving and receiving, stewardship, guilt, forgiveness and even financial debt.