[jmz]

Hi Minkoff,

I think these things are tough calls. I faced a similar situation a couple of years ago. My brother was living way beyond his means and his family of 5 were going to have some troubles paying their property taxes and other bills. He originally came to me with a request of $20,000 and later said he thought $5,000 would get him by. I lost sleep over it for a few days until I finally decided to loan them the money (knowing that may not ever see it again).

I slept well the night I made the decision and he has not paid me back because he really can't.

I guess I am happy I was in a situation to help but all it really did was to postpone the inevitable.

I looked at their finances and gave suggestions on how to scale down and get things back in line but they didn't take my advice at the time.

I think they are now trying a bit harder and I hope they succeed to get their house in order.

I guess my advice would be if your family really needs your help and you are in a position to do so then strongly consider it.

Cheers,
JZ