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People would call me a fool. I am regularly consulted for advice or technical support in my specialism, but never charge a penny.

“What on earth is wrong with you?” others would ask. “You could have made a fortune on the side by now!”

And maybe I could. But I don’t see the need to monetize every good deed. Not when I need every good deed I can get.

This morning, I’ve been contacted by an elderly Jewish scholar who campaigns for justice for Palestine.

Last week, by a charity I worked with years ago. In the past few months, by former colleagues.

“You should charge them for your time,” people say to me. “You should put value on your expertise.”

But I do value it. It’s just it’s not rocket science. It’s simply know-how I’ve accumulated over many years at little cost to myself. Mostly, my only skill is to be extremely patient with those that ask.

I am not of the modern school of thought, which sees every human interaction as a business opportunity. I don’t need any get-rich-quick scheme. I’m content with my slow wealth.

Some give of their time serving soup to the homeless on cold winter’s nights. Others in counselling the down and out in their hour of need.

Theirs is a charity much more noble than mine. I’m just a tech nerd, giving of the knowledge granted me to those sent my way by the One.

If you learn anything in life, it’s this: “Never repulse the one who comes to you asking for help.”