Great post...I love the idea of helperman and I'll def try to put a little of his ethic into my everyday. 

I recieved a book last christmas that thinks along the same lines - its called 'change the world for a fiver' (the book cost a fiver!) and it's full of ideas of things to do that challenge the way you normally, selfishly think...things like learn basic first aid, grow something with a child, learn to be friendly in another language etc...

If you're interested in that kind of stuff then check out www.community-links.org for more of the same.

As for the political side of things you hit it square on.  Where are our leaders who will challenge us?  Where are leaders who will offer a real alternative rather than a variation of the same?  Where are the leaders who will admit that they don't have all the answers but who will work like hell to come up with some damn good solutions?

If only helperman would run instead! saludos

Ali

sticksandstones.bligoo.com