[crich70]

To affect is to make a difference.
Effect = a change which is a result or consequence of an action or other cause.
So if you are doing something that changes something in some way you have an affect. If something in your life has been changed then whatever caused that change has had an effect.

So if I give you $50.00 when you need that sum to get a tire fixed I've had an affect on your being able to get the repair work done. On the other hand if you run over a nail in the road and suffer a flat tire then that nail has had an effect on your ability to get where you are going at the time.