Giving It Forward—Join the Campaign!

In loving memory of my sister, Jerri Lynn, who fought many life battles and still found ways to give…

Please join me in the 2nd Annual Giving It Forward campaign. This is not a fundraiser but an awareness-raiser. In a world that places so much emphasis on self-awareness, others-awareness is also needed. It is about connection and reaching out in simple ways. Even when we feel empty—like we have nothing to give—getting outside ourselves has a way of filling our hearts. The Power of Compassion in Recovery

Giving It Forward is about finding ways we can use our interactions for good. Words of encouragement can calm a doubting heart. A heart-felt, yet simple, thank-you can re-energize a tired worker. Compassionate listening can help a friend feel a renewed sense of worth.

Sometimes recognizing and being grateful for the gifts that others have to give can lift a sinking soul back into the light.

Open Hearts

On my own healing journey—when I was able to accept the realities of the trauma I experienced—my  heart became keenly aware of the kindnesses others showed me during the painful parts of my childhood. The love and nurture I received from others helped me to see possibilities of good in life and in myself. I was not rescued from the trauma, but rescued from its full impact.

Their kindness broke through the walls around my heart. I could see more clearly the strength that comes with connection. George MacDonald said “it is by loving and not by being loved that one can come nearest to the soul of another.” George MacDonald Anthology, C.S. Lewis We all need to be loved, but to internalize that love, we need to learn to give as well as receive. It is in this full circle of giving and receiving that we find wholeness.

It is in connection that we find a sense of purpose and expand our ability to create I life we can thrive in. Giving and receiving with open hearts, allows the good pieces of life to settle into the deepest parts of our souls. And giving back with an open heart enlarges our souls and fills the voids in our hearts with joy.

Giving It Forward

I invite you to join the Giving It Forward campaign. But don’t wait until you have time to do the “big” thing. Our lives are built on small moments. In the small moments, hearts can be touched. I love how Emily Dickenson put it “Sometimes when I consider the tremendous consequences of little things—a chance word, a tap on the shoulder, or wink of an eye—I am tempted to think there are no little things.” http://attention-to-little-things

There are as many ways of giving it forward as there are people on the planet. No two of us are the same and we all have gifts—ways to touch others for good—that can enrich our lives as well as those around us. So today, reach out and let someone know you’re thinking of them.

We can be a force for good. Acknowledge the impact for good others have had on our lives, and Give It Forward.