last night the folks at american idol (yes, i watch - so do you, don't lie) staged their second annual idol gives back show aimed at raising funds for AIDS work in africa and disenfranchised children across america. throughout the show there were profiles done on a variety of different in-need populations: children orphaned by AIDS, migrant workers in california working for less than $9,000/year, people without health care all across the united states (50 million of them children!) and the still unsettled gulf coast region. ryan and i were moved to donate (we bought 5 malaria nets!) and we had a great discussion after the show about philanthropy.
having worked in the business of giving and philanthropy for most of my professional career i realize how easily one can become cynical about charitable giving. i have seen a lot of people who give to see what they will get from their gift and who do not give, simply, just to give. however, i have also seen people give and want nothing in return and give, just as simply, just to give. we have been involved in donating money to several charities for the past several years and are trying to hone in on one or two to become more involved with. it has been a fantastic experience for both of us. the very nature of giving comes easily to both of us but trying to equate that into action is more difficult. we realize that philanthropy is so much more than a game of dollars and cents. it's also about giving time and energy to something that you feel passionate about and attempting, through your passion, to spread that energy around, creating a better world for all. if you've read my list you'll see that "find a place to volunteer" is right at the top. it's my next step in giving and an important one. not everything is done with a checkbook and, as ryan said last night, if it is, it's easily forgotten after a day or two. it is so important to both of us that we raise a child that is charitable, compassionate, aware and involved. there is an entire world beyond the door of 126 park avenue and my greatest joy will be teaching wil to develop the realization that he cannot only exist in the world, he must participate in it as well. i hope that my actions will encourage him to give his money, donate his time and use his heart and mind to be the change he wants to see in the world. cliche, yes, but appropriate.
speaking of giving...today is ASPCA day. if you are lucky enough to share your life with an animal give them an extra hug, one more treat, or add 10 minutes to their walk today in honor of all those animals that have yet to find a great family. i get so much joy from my four legged friends and am grateful each day for their presence in my life.
(yes, they are wearing shirts - it was st. patrick's day - give me a break!)
think globally, act locally, give of yourself - time, talent and treasure. i am inspired - i hope you are!
