Wednesday, September 19, 2007
If the Spirit Moves You
Email to a friendPrint this article
Even when it was just a bud in my overgrown garden of a brain, Misstropolis had Spirit at its core.
I was getting more annoyed with each new magazine page I saw dedicated to pictures of smiling couples at black tie benefits – not because there was anything wrong with the benefits, or the couples, but because the magazines were not telling the other side of the story. Unglamorous or unsmiling images from organizations receiving funds from these events were not deemed worthy of photographers, advertisers or readers. This irked me.
I wanted Misstropolis to be a place where stories of remarkable people doing remarkable work because they cared about helping others and making the world a better place could be told. For every black tie event there are thousands of hours of work done by volunteers, social workers, educators, parents, non-profit organizations, fund-raisers, families and doctors for philanthropic and charitable organizations. And every hour of work has a tale attached. Not all are heroic, but some are. I say let’s share them. Let’s get inspired.
I’ve noticed that since we launched in March, Charity sections have gotten almost trendy - Philanthropy seems to be the new black. This is a good thing, of course. The more awareness raised, the more money raised, the more causes can be served. But the point of Spirit is Giving. The parties are just the reward for the hard work.
This is an for you to share your stories. Who do you know that embodies selfless dedication to a cause? What examples of kindness and compassion have made an impression on you? Who is the most remarkable person you know? The most remarkable organization? Do you do charitable or community work that gives your life special meaning? – we’ll all benefit.
Tonight, instead of watching the news, go back through the Spirit archives and read through some that grab you. There are so many moving stories there, so many unsung heroes celebrated in the short span of six months.
We are honored that so many brave people have been willing to share their stories so far. We hope you will too – !
Comments
Giving. It is a scary word for people with busy schedules. And my husband and I are the recipients of heart- felt giving. On September 22 , we threw our 10th annual Barn Dance Fundraiser to benefit the Foundation that I have been on the board of for 4 years and raising money for 10 years. It is a disease support and research organization named Shwachman Diamond Syndrome Foundation and our 12 year daughter was diagnosed with this rare bone marrow and pancreas disease at age 2. I am sharing this story because and we are so grateful to all our friends and family who have not only supported us financially but emotionally as well. We raised $70,000 on Sept 22 and we are thankful to all who gave in so many ways - financial donations, donations of products, help with cooking, cleaning and more. There are ways to give that don’t have to be monetary. Please remember that anyone can help make the world a kinder, healthier place by giving - even the littlest ways can make the biggest differences.
Here in USA we are surrounded with the attitude of ‘It’s all about me!’ It’s time to step back and realize that the world does not revolve around us. I’ve been to other countries and when I compare the good ol’ US of A to all the countries that I’ve been to, we got it made here! We have all that we need here! Other countries worry about where to get their next meal! And here we worry about being the first in line to get the iPhone! What a shame. Anyhow, enough venting already. I know there are still Americans who care about things that really matter. This will be an awesome way to know find that. It’s time to let everyone know that we, here in the US, really care!
Page 1 of 1 pages