Usually on Saturday, we review a product. And give something away. Which is great and awesome…I heart giveaways.
But this week, I want to try something different. I want to talk about giving back. Reaching out. Helping someone less fortunate.
This time of year, it is SO easy to get caught up in STUFF. It starts on Black Friday, or even earlier. Don’t get me wrong, I’m totally not judging. I’ve been stalking the Amazon Flash Sales like a psycho. In my breaks from manic Internet shopping, I’ve been trying to catch up on blogs.
And I ran across the most amazing post called Operation WANA: We Are Not A**holes in my Facebook feed. It stopped me dead in my tracks. An invitation to those in need to post their story in the comments, in the hopes someone could help. I sat, reading through the comments, crying.
I’ve read Martinis or Diaper Genies (MODG) for a few years now, and usually am laughing out loud. Amanda is hilarious. But this thing she’s started, this outpouring of kindness, honestly leaves me without words.
Today, in the spirit of the season, I wanted to bring some attention to some great ways to spread some cheer, to make a difference. And I’ll bullet point them, cause Lord knows I love bullet points. Also, it makes your life easier. See? I’m giving back already.
- Our Lissa’s a-freaking-dorable eight-year-old twin boys, Bridger and Ashton, are each raising money for Charity: Water. These two kiddos are incredible. Seriously. They have each already raised over $1000 each to bring clean water to people in Ethiopia. Clean water…a basic human necessity. These boys are doing great things, and kudos to their parents for raising such empathetic young dudes! Go check out their fundraising pages. Truly inspiring.
- Even if you are short on cash money, you can still make a difference. My friend, Andrea, has a great tradition with her children: Twenty-Five Days of Giving. She’s got a great list of inexpensive ways to brighten someone’s day. Plus, it’s a great way to encourage younger children to develop a love of giving.
- Food banks are being used more than ever. There’s SO much need. Consider making a donation to your local food bank or giving the gift of your time.
- The holidays can be a very lonely time for some. Remember that some people’s foul moods have deep roots – and maybe, just maybe, a kind word or a smile will make a difference to them. So my last suggestion, to all of you, is absolutely free and so very necessary. Be gentle with each other.
I know there are so many other ways to give back. What cause do you absolutely love? Give it a shout out in the comments.
Okay, go forth and spread the love. You’ll help someone, and you’ll help yourself. Win-win.
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