What are you doing the rest of your year?

Last December were you one of the many who many resolutions? How did that work for you? Did you follow through?  How about other plans?  Was there some big project you wanted to do in 2014 or somewhere you wanted to go?  You're not out of time yet, but the clock is still ticking.

 

I'm not a big believer in New Year's resolutions.  I think it's much better to resolve to do good things every single day of your life, but not force a specific list upon ourselves that often is unrealistic and simply sets us up for failure.  I also believe that we should all seize the moment and that whole "change the world" thing that I am always talking about - I think that is an ongoing project that should never end.  Any day is a good day to give back to our communities and to make a difference.

 

It's lovely to see folks get all excited around Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's, and other holidays and make plans to help others.  The campaign that I've been talking about here for several days, where Josh started and online fundraiser to help the homeless man Thomas is another example of holiday giving that really warms my heart.  I hope it continues (and you can just click HERE to find out more about that and to donate and help Thomas too), but I would love even more for that spirit to be alive in February and in June and in times when there is no "holiday season of giving."

 

But for the rest of 2014, do you have any plans?  Do you agree with me about the giving?  Do you agree about resolutions?  Let me hear from you!  We don't get many comments anymore and I would love to end the year with a whole stream of thoughts from you who read this!  Now, let's get out there and enjoy these last few days before 2015 comes running toward us!

The making of a hero

It takes all kinds of people and it takes all kinds of actions.  Very few of us actually set out to be a hero.  Last week Josh Paler Lin did something that got a lot of attention, including mine.  On Christmas Eve I even wrote about those actions HERE.  Josh's video about helping a homeless man has gotten a lot of attention.  I've mentioned it every day since and the originally online fundraising goal of $10,000 has been blown out of the water!  As of this morning they have raised $122,763.  So is Josh a hero?

 

Well there is much more to the story than that.  Josh has also picked up Thomas from the shelter where he was staying and put him in a motel room.  He's taken him out for meals too.  A bigger thing though I see is that Josh has shown us all how easy it is to make a difference.  People all around the world have been donating, some as little as one dollar, and because many worked together as one, something good happened.

 

Josh made another video about helping a homeless man.  On Thanksgiving last year he gave a homeless made $100 and then had an actor pretending to be needy, ask the homeless made for help.  You can watch that video HERE.  Josh has made other "awareness" or social experiment videos too, including a very serious one about child abduction that you can watch HERE.  Motivating people through his videos, it would seem to me that Josh is spreading a message of hope.

 

There have been tons of news accounts of Josh helping Thomas in these past few days.  It's a nice Christmas "feel good" kind of story and it is wonderful to see so many helping out.  What strikes me though is that Josh Lin on several occasions has gotten the ball rolling and that Josh has been the spark to ignite the flame of generosity.  That to me would make him a hero and one that all of us can so easily follow!

The Amazing Story of Thomas and Josh

The story I am about to tell is amazing on a number of levels. This time of year has been referred to as a season of miracles, and this is certainly evidence that miracles do exist.  It seems that a young filmmaker named Josh spotted a man named Thomas, panhandling near a freeway entrance.  Josh approached Thomas and briefly chatted with him before handing him a $100 bill.  What Thomas didn't know was that Josh had a hidden camera and both that meeting and the trip to a liquor store that Thomas took minutes later was all recorded.

 

That Thomas received one hundred dollars from a stranger is pretty good, even if his tale was being put into a video, but what warms you heart is that Thomas, who minutes earlier had nothing, went and bought food and gave it to other poor people - folks he didn't even know.  Josh reentered the picture at this point to tell Thomas he was being recorded and to praise Thomas for being generous in his own poverty.  Josh then gives Thomas an additional hundred dollars.

 

Are you still with me?  This is pretty incredible stuff so far, right?  Of course some might shrug it off as a stunt by Josh to build some publicity for himself.  Helping out someone with $200 isn't that high a price to pay to become famous.  It seems though that Josh already is famous to internet watchers.  He makes funny videos that are available on youtube.  It was from the posting of his video that most people first heard this story.  Then a huge miracle occurred.  Josh created an online fundraiser to gather more money for Thomas and really get him back on his feet.  Using indiegogo and setting a $10,000 goal, Thomas set this all up on Monday (two days ago).  Well, they made that goal within a few hours!

 

The picture you see above is from this morning when I woke up.  As you can see, the fundraising from Thomas already had 2,887 funders and even if each of them had only donated a dollar, that would be pretty remarkable.  The donation amounts have varied though and the total then was $51,881 and it continues to grow.  I just checked, and right now the total stands at $64,752 and who knows how big it will get?  Click HERE if you want to give too or even if you just want to check out the fundraising site or want to share it with others.

 

I'll definitely keep you updated on this.  It is an amazing story and it's so perfect at this time of year.  It shows that there are a lot of caring and generous people in the world who do indeed make a difference.  It seems to me with this momentum that we could feed all of the hungry if we really put our minds to it!

Hello! I'm Michael

Hello!  My name is Michael.  I'm not here to tell you about my upcoming vacation or to exchange recipes or to moan about the politicians in Washington.  Actually I only mention my name because I am the one who writes this stuff every day.  If you have been here before you already know this is NOT about me.

 

What the blog is about is making a difference in our world.  I write here about hometown heroes who do great things (do tell me about some folks you know in the comments section below) and I write about various ideas of how I can be a better person and how we all can give back to society.  This really has no end.  Making a difference is a lifelong process and I hope you will not only join me in reading this daily chapters, but will join me in doing the deeds we need to do.  There is certainly something good for all of us to do!

 

Oh and since I certainly don't have all the answers, I invite your comments and suggestions as well!  Tell people about the blog, but also participate by letting me hear from you.

 

Do you need a compass?

Tomorrow would have been my mom's 88th birthday.  She died in the spring of last year, so this is the second December without her and I miss her just as much as the day she died.  She was always my compass, when I needed one.  That's what made me write about this today.

What do I do? Where shall I go? What comes next? Does my life have any sort of purpose of direction? Well, if you are asking yourself these questions, it's a good thing. Every once in awhile it is important for each of us to take stock of ourselves and look not only at where we have been, but where we are going. Sometimes change is a good idea. Do you need some help? Do you need a compass? There is nothing wrong with reaching out to others to try to decide your path.

 

Family and friends can be a great resource in helping to determine with way to go.  When a loss within your family has gotten you asking these questions, it might be even more important to lean on each other, so to speak.  They are not the only resource though.  Some of us have tons of friends and great big families.  Others are a bit more alone.  There are professionals who also can be of great benefits.  Counselors, clergy, health care workers, attorneys, teachers, and others might help guide you when you find yourself questioning what comes next.  Getting involved in support groups can sometimes be of benefit too.

 

The library used to be a great place for finding information.  It still is, of course, but now we also have the internet where we can find answers to our questions in seconds.  Sometimes these answers are all we need as our compass.

 

Nobody should ever have to go through life feeling lost or confused.  Life is more than just being alive and we all have a purpose.  Find yours.  Life will be so much richer once you know the path you are taking!

Heartwarming moments of the holidays

There always seem to be more heartwarming moments during the holiday season and while I often hope for that wonderful spirit to expand to the entire year, it is important to look at the good when it comes.  I keep hearing about folks who give up their own Christmas in order to brighten other people's holiday.  I'm actually talking about people who give every minute of December 25th volunteering at a shelter or food program.  There are tons of examples.

 

Izzy Bradley is the cute little girl pictured here in this week's Target ad.  Izzy has Down Syndrome and while using her in the chain's circular shouldn't be a bit deal, it is because not many businesses have really recognized inclusiveness.  Hopefully this will also help raise awareness.

 

Then there's the story of little Addie, a six-year-old who might not see another Christmas.  Folks from all over are helping to make this Christmas bright by sending her cards and stuffed animals and warm wishes.  The complete story about this little girl is at http://www.pgcity.org/police/little-addie

 

Every day I come across more and more heartwarming stories of people doing kind and generous things - making a difference in the lives of others.  How wonderful!  If you come across some of these inspiring folks, let us know about them in the comments section below!

Tea With Toan

Here in this space I write each day about making a difference and I have written more about Toan Lam than any other individual. A mutual friend introduced us a few years ago, for which I will always be grateful.  It wasn't long after that Toan created Go Inspire Go, which usually is something I tell you about when I write about him.  He also has a recurring Tea With Toan feature where he chats with someone of interest.  The most recent of those video conversations deals with grief.

Dealing with the loss of a loved one is difficult.  Just last year I went through a difficult time following the loss of my mother.  I remember that Easter, Mother's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas were particularly tough for me last year.  It was actually some of the kindness and wisdom of Toan that helped me back then.  In this latest Tea With Toan, which you can watch HERE, there is even more help. Being There for Someone in Grief: Essential Lessons in Supporting Someone Grieving from Death, Loss and Trauma, is a book by Marianna Cacciatore, who in this chat with Toan tells the story of her own childhood trauma and grief.  She mentions generosity and love several times, which is certainly appropriate because they are the very words I would use to describe Toan Lam.

Good stuff here and I highly recommend watching the conversation (which lasts just over twenty minutes). You can also find out more HERE and more about Go Inspire Go in general HERE.  Oh and the author has a website too at http://www.mariannacacciatore.com/

 

Grief isn't just when a person dies, and I am grateful to learning a lot of new things and new ways to cope with various kinds of loss.  Thank you so much to Marianna and Toan for this special awakening which is so good at this holiday season.  I have not yet picked up the book, but I just ordered it!

Martina makes a difference

As any tennis player will tell you, Martina Navratilova ruled that sport back in the 70s and 80s. She won 18 Grand Slam singles titles and reached the Wimbledon singles final 12 times. For so many, Martina is a hero. She is for me too, but for other reasons. She could have devoted her life to her sport but keep quiet about her private life. Martina could have spent time in a closet. Instead, she publicly came out as a gay woman in 1981, and she has been an advocate for LGBT equality ever since.

 

Coming out does so much good for so many, but it is a difficult decision and I don't for a moment mean to second guess those who chose not to.  In some cases it just isn't safe.  Sadly, there are places where your honestly could cost your life.  I'm always pleased though when people are visible and that's why back in September, Martina warmed my heart when she got down on her knee between matches at the US Open, and proposed marriage to former model Julia Lemigova.  There they both were up on the Jumbotron for all to see.

 

Yesterday was their wedding day.  Congratulations and much happiness to both women.  Your act yesterday makes a difference.  People have more and more positive role models now.  This can only be a good thing.  As people continue to fight against marriage equality, we can only hope that someday folks will realize that love is all you need.  Thanks Martina for helping to lead the way.

Rejoice!

The word "rejoice" means to show or feel that you are very happy about something. The last part of December, is traditionally the happiest time of the year. Church-goers might recognize the Scripture verses from yesterday that contain the word "rejoice." Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice (Philippians 4:4) and Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:16).  The common greeting in the malls and restaurants we frequent even urges happiness.

When I see people sleeping on the sidewalk because they have no place to call home, it's hard to rejoice.  When I see people being shot by the police because of their race, it's very hard to rejoice.  When children are taking their own lives because they are bullied and left to feel worthless and unloved, I find it very difficult to be happy.  When students carry guns on to school campuses and open fire on their fellow students, how can I even think of rejoicing?

We each have free will and we each have an opportunity, I think even a responsibility, to get involved and to do good things.  That's the whole theme of this daily blog.  Each one of us can make a difference.  Is the world perfect?  Of course not!  It's so easy sometimes to see all the gloom and doom that it easy to throw our hand in the air and give up, but change doesn't happen that way.  Sometimes making things better requires a little work.  Amid all the bad there is always some good too.  In that good, we should rejoice, as we build on it to make more good.

Ask yourself this question: Do you consistently look for reasons to rejoice, even when your own circumstances or events in the world make it difficult to endure?  Perhaps that could be a starting point.  Look for the good and work to create more good, and then .   .   . rejoice!

Sometimes silence is better

When I first wake up in the morning, often before even brushing my teeth, I think of what I will say here in this place. Sometimes I write a lot, but usually it is just a few paragraphs. The theme of course is making a difference in this world - giving back - doing good. There is so much I can write, but sometimes I am almost at a loss for words. Should I some days be quiet and say nothing?  Late yesterday, I was listening to a sermon by Father Bill Rhodes, and it hit me that what he was saying, would be perfect for me to write about today.

 

Father Bill is an exceptional preacher.  He is an exceptional human being!  I first met him over thirty years ago and, although I seldom see him (we live in different cities), will always have a special place for him in my heart.  Whenever possible, I read or listen to sermons he preaches and I am never disappointed.  Today he was at Trinity Cathedral, an Episcopal Church in the city of Phoenix. 

 

I wish I had the text of his sermon.  It could be quietly read.  Sometimes silence is better.  Wait!  Those were his exact words - "Sometimes silence is better." Perhaps a little silence from me would be appropriate and instead, we can listen to him.  I'll try to find a recording. He speaks about AIDS and those who have died and of his early ministry in San Francisco.  His message really touched me.  Oh and thanks Father Bill for making such a difference in my life!

Busy December

Oh this just might be the busiest month with Christmas and Kwanza and Chanukah and New Year's Eve. There is a lot of associated shopping and a lot of parties. There are end of year observances and there is also the beginning of the winter season.

That's not all though folks! Today for example is also National Cookie Day, National Dice Day, National Salesperson Day, and World Wildlife Conservation Day. Tomorrow is Bartender Appreciation Day. This Saturday is Saint Nicholas Day. Sunday is Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.

There is at least one special observance for every single day of this month. In addition there are weeklong celebrations and several month-long observances as well. December is Universal Human Rights Month, Worldwide Food Service Safety Month, Safe Toys and Gifts Month, Bingo's Birthday Month, Tomato and Winter Squash Month, and National Write A Business Plan Month. It's also Buckwheat Month, National Drunk & Drugged Driving Prevention Month, Spiritual Literacy Month, World AIDS Month, and National Tie Month.

 

Oh and don't forget the birthdays!  Busy month, huh?

Saint Dorothy's Rest

Yesterday, I mentioned here three organizations that I think are worthy of support. One of those is Saint Dorothy's Rest, which is a camp and retreat center run by the Episcopal Diocese of California. The oldest camp in California, Saint Dorothy’s Rest is located in the midst of a redwood forest in Sonoma County, in the San Francisco Bay Area. Summer camps are held there for kids. There are hospital camps and retreats there as well. It's a special place where you can get away and reconnect with your faith.

Individuals can go there for a day or for a weekend and find refreshment. It's great for meeting too or for a conference with your youth group.  Saint Dorothy's is really many things, but most of all it is a special place that you never grow tired of.  Katie Evenbeck has served as Executive Director there for the past ten years and certainly is one of the many reasons that Saint Dorothy's is so great.
 

As a youngster in upstate New York, I was an annual summer camper at a wonderful place that I am reminded of when I think of Saint Dorothy's Rest.  My summers as a camper and then later on as a staff member, bring some very special memories, and that's just what happens at Saint Dorothy's.  You build memories of a lifetime.

I'm writing about them because it's a place that deserves to be known.  If you live in Northern California, you may wish to participate in some of their programs.  They could also always use your support.  There are many ways of giving, and if you click HERE you can find a list.  Please take a moment too and click HERE to watch a four minute video all about them.  It will warm your heart.  More information is also available about this special place on their website at http://stdorothysrest.org/

Giving Tuesday

We have had a day for giving thanks for a long time and the days that immediately follow for getting good shopping deals. For the past couple of years though we have had #Giving Tuesday, a global day dedicated to giving back. It's the Tuesday right after Thanksgiving, which is today. We're talking big time giving here folks. Many organizations are hoping for some hefty contributions today and I hope that some of you can oblige.

A little bit more about it all. First, the US website is at http://www.givingtuesday.org/ and gives you a lot of information. Canada is going it too and their website at http://givingtuesday.ca/ tells you a lot as well. UNICEF is a major partner in Giving Tuesday and you can get to their website by clicking HERE.  Of course you can donate to your favorite charity.  It doesn't have to be any particular organization.

 

Because yesterday was World AIDS Day, I have a number of AIDS organizations in my head, but as I said, the charity you give to is totally up to you.  Don't have a lot of money?  Perhaps you would like to take some of the funds you would normally use for gifts and instead donate it in the name of the people you would have bought gifts for.  Now some folks might be more materialistic and moan about that, but I can tell you that I would be thrilled if you made a donation to one of my favorite charities (API Wellness Center, Lacuna Giving Circle, or Saint Dorothy's Rest) in my name.

 

If money is really tight, you might also consider today as a wake-up call to get involved and perhaps, instead of giving money, you can give some of your time.  Many non-profits can always use volunteers.

 

So today, think about giving in a very special way.  Make a difference this Giving Tuesday.  Tell your family and your friends about it too!

Do not surrender

Today is World AIDS Day, first observed in 1988, dedicated to raising awareness of the AIDS pandemic and mourning those who have died of the disease. Today is also the anniversary of Rosa Parks' arrest for her act of defiance when she refused to obey the bus driver's order that she give up her seat in the colored section to a white passenger.   The disease of prejudice was faced head-on by Miss Parks.  She refused to surrender and as a result, the United States Congress called her "the first lady of civil rights" and "the mother of the freedom movement."

People had been dying of AIDS, but the government wasn't paying any attention. In fact, many were ignoring this huge health crisis because in the US it was largely gay man and drug users who were effected.  James Bunn and Thomas Netter at the World Health Organization didn't surrender, but instead created World AIDS Day.

The heroes that I write about here and the unsung heroes, of which there are many, are people who stand up for what is right and make a difference.  Sometimes it looks pretty bleak.  Sometimes it is so tempting to turn around and walk the other direction.  Life is full of difficult moments though and we need to stand up to them and do what needs to be done.  Do not surrender though because when you do, you most certainly end up losing.

Racial prejudice is still with us of course and so is AIDS.  We've come a long way.  We have made a lot of progress.  Most people at least know what is right and just these days, even if they do the opposite.  On this December 1st though I would like you to take a few minutes to think about Rosa Parks and the difference she made.  Although she was honored many years later, the immediate result wasn't good for her.  Not only did she go to jail, but she also lost her job.  Many people with AIDS have lost their jobs too.  While medical progress has reduced the death sentences we used to see, we still see stigma attached to the disease, especially in rural areas.  Yet, it is necessary to keep going forward and to not surrender.

Support equal rights campaigns.  Support AIDS research and patient care.  Talk openly about our past and look forward to a brighter future.  Do not surrender.

Happy Toangiving!

A very happy Toangiving to you all!  Huh?  You probably think I made a mistake.  Toangiving?

Today is of course Thanksgiving Day, a national holiday here in the United States and one of the most popular celebrations of the entire year.  It's a day for giving thanks and for families to gather and for folks to eat great feasts, watch parades and football on television, and begin preparations for more holidays yet to come.  It's also special for me because when I think of giving thanks, I think of this blog that I write each day and I also think of Toan Lam.

 

Probably more than any other individual, I have written here on many occasions about Toan.  My blog is about making a difference in this world, and Toan could easily be the posterboy for that.  he makes a difference each and every day.  His organization Go Inspire Go is such a feel-good group that every single thing I read about or see from GiG touches me very deeply.  Go Inspire Go does just what its name says - it inspires.  Toan Lam is behind that and he inspires both with that agency and just by being himself.  I'm convinced that the literal translation of Toan is inspiring.

 

I have so very much to be thankful for!  I have a loving family and many wonderful friends.  I have a new home and each day see new adventures.  We all have much to be thankful for of course.  Life is full of wonderful blessings.  We don't always see them though.  Some are more apt to dwell on the negative.  Toan seems to see all of the good, and just in case the rest of us don't, he freely points it out to us. He is as humble though as he is giving and will likely be embarrassed to find that I have written this.  On days when I think "oh I should skip writing my blog" or "I can't possibly keep on writing this," it's Toan Lam in the back of my mind that keep encouraging me.  I am thankful to know this kind and generous man and I give thanks that he came our way!

 

You can find out more about Toan and his wonderful organization at http://goinspirego.com/ and if you read some of his words and view some of his videos, you will better understand what I mean.  Thank you Toan Lam and thank you to everyone who makes this a better world!

Channeling concerns constructively

As you know, the grand jury deliberating the death of Michael Brown in Ferguson this summer, issued its decision last night and they decided not to indict the police officer who was responsible. Even before the announcement, protests had begun both there in Ferguson and in cities across the country. Some turned violent. Sadly, some Ferguson businesses were totally destroyed. This morning though I want to talk about another announcement that came last night - this one from the President of the United States,

Not long after the Ferguson Grand Jury announcement, President Barack Obama went to the White House Briefing Room and calmly spoke to the American people about that announcement. During his remarks, the President joined Michael Brown’s parents in calling on those who were protesting, to do so peacefully. Unfortunately, most of the protesters were already in the streets and not listening to the President.

Why was there looting? Why was there destruction of property? I would imagine that frustration played a big part. I remember the crowd in San Francisco when the Dan White verdict (charged with killing Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk) was read. People were outraged and they were frustrated. The "system" let us down again. Very much the same in Ferguson where it must have seemed like again a police officer was getting away with murder.

There things we can do. I spoke of this back in the summer when Michael Brown was killed. President Obama spoke of it last night. Political engagement and political reform were mentioned by the President, who also said he had instructed the US Attorney General to work with cities across the country to build better relationships between communities and law enforcement. The President urged people to not be violent and to not be destructive, but to make a difference and to work for change.

 

The President is correct, of course.  "There are ways of channeling your concerns constructively and there are ways of channeling your concerns destructively," is part of what he said.  All too often we are angered by events and we overturn newsracks and cars, and throw bottles, and smash windows.  Soon after it is business as usual and nothing has changed.  What President Obama is urging is that we channel our energies in to actual reforms to make sure that whatever bad thing does not reoccur.  We shouldn't move on and forget about it.  History will just repeat itself.  Let's all take the President's advice and get involved and make some positive changes for the good of all.

Be the light

The things that light up someone else's life aren't necessarily complex things. Walking down the street and bring greeted by a hearty hello is a sure way to give me a smile.

 

When I first began writing this blog about six years ago, I thought that I might possibly run out of things to say about making a difference in our world. Nope. That is not going to happen! There are so many ways! Having recently moved into a new community, I can see clearly the multitude of differences in my new town and of course, all the similarities as well. The really big and wonderful thing is that we can always help to light the path for others.

 

Now as you know, this blog is NOT about me, but nevertheless, I do from time to time sneak in little references to things I do and things folks do around me. This morning I just have to mention the friendliness of all these folks I have encountered in the past several days. "Welcome to town," I keep hearing people say to me. A kind lady at the bank told me about various parades and celebrations that take place here. Folks in the coffee shop have been telling me about local museums and galleries. I think I am learning something new every day.

 

I could walk about in darkness. Where is the closest drugstore? Are there any good sushi places in town? Is there an ATM anywhere close? I could ask a lot of questions and hope I find my way around. The thing is, I've mostly encountered people who are already friendly and helpful. How is it where you live? Do you ever take the time to be the light for others?

Always a good holiday gift!

Making out your holiday list yet?  Well a year ago I wrote here how sponsoring my friend Jason in AIDS LifeCycle makes a great holiday gift, and it's still true!  He did wonderful last year, but each year he tries a little harder to make a difference and each year he has an impressive fundraising total for this important cause.

 

By no means does Jason Villalobos do this alone though!  He needs me and he needs you and he needs his hundreds or thousands of supporters.  Every single donation makes a difference.

 

At this time of year we are bombarded by requests for money.  Many very worthwhile causes are hitting us up.  If you are like me, there is not a never-ending supply of funds and so choices have to be made.  Supporting Jason is a choice I make every year. 

 

As he once again hops on his bike for another 545 mile trek from San Francisco to Los Angeles to raise money for HIV/AIDS services in California, can he count on you? Click HERE to go to his secure fundraising page to find out more and to donate. 

Get involved

Election Day was this week and I am very happy to report that most of the people I supported were elected.  There is still a race that is too close to say for certain, but I am keeping my fingers crossed.  I was not nearly as involved in the contests this time around as I usually am.  I did a tiny bit of work for a couple of candidates and donated a modest amount of money.  Still, there was some involvement, and there will continue to be, even though I now live in another city.

 

The City Council meets at night here - I already checked.  It would seem to me that it would be extremely easy for folks to attend these meetings!

 

Attendance isn't all that involvement entails.  There are a lot of ways to be involved it what is going on around us.  Awareness is one of the really important things in the mix.  If you know what is happening and where it is happening, it is much easier to get involved in the whole process.  Don't like what your mayor just did or the way a legislative vote went?  Get involved!  Speak out.  Write some letters.  Perhaps it's even time for you to file papers and run for office yourself.

Picture cooperation

Well the trip to Arizona went well and I'm sure I will have stories to tell as I get to know this community.  Of course some of my stories really have nothing to do with where I am anyway.  This blog is NOT about me!  Anyway, I've told you this particular story about cooperation before, but I really like it, and since cooperation is such a great thing (and I'm pooped from the trip and don't want to think too much), I thought I'd share this story again.

It's about a man who was taken on a tour of both heaven and hell. In hell he was shown a banquet hall filled with diners seated at a table that was covered with all kinds of delicious food. Each person’s back and left arm were tied to the chair so that bending at the waist was impossible, and the left arm could not move. The right arm was stiffened so that the elbow would not bend. The people at the table could gaze at the delicious spread and they could smell the aroma of the food, but they were starving.

In heaven, the picture was exactly the same – backs and left arms shackled, right arms stiffened – but the diners were feasting and rejoicing, because each diner used his stiffened right arm to feed the person to his or her right. It was a picture of people working together – a picture of cooperation. Working together as a team, we can do so much more!

Think about it.  How wonderful this world would be if we all worked together!

on the road

Getting up extra early to get in one last San Francisco walk before hitting the road. Oh and of course I wanted to make sure this was done, largely because there might be a gap after today.  I hope that the upcoming road trip is nice and smooth, but the matter of internet access is not something I am sure of.  If nothing new shows up here for a day or two, it is likely an internet issue, not my laziness.

 

Oh wait a minute!  It's possible that I will simply be exhausted.  That's not the same as being lazy.  (I'm a bit tired already and we haven't even loaded the truck yet!

 

So, thank you San Francisco for all the love over the many years.  I hope the good folks in Arizona will be as kind.  Of course this blog has little to do with where I live because after all, it's NOT about me!  You can make a difference in the world wherever you live and I will continue writing in the same manner, just from a different venue.  Until the desk is set up in that new spot, why not talk amongst yourselves.  Leave some comments below so I'll have something to read.  Oh and by the way, I will hopefully go back to writing this every single day once again (so weekends will return), just as soon as I am settled.

bits and pieces

Writing this blog only four days a week has given me the extra time I have needed for packing and preparing to move, but I have also gotten behind and missed a number of things I have wanted to say. This morning a few bits and pieces of various things to catch up a little. I think I should also resume writing this every single day!

So, just in case you haven't noticed yet, today is election day. I know it might be a big yawn for a lot of you, but did you know that midterm elections effect your life a lot more than Presidential elections? Get out there and VOTE! (Oh and there are some people I particularly believe in that I hope will get your vote today. I hope the good folks around Campbell, CA will be sending Evan Low to the State Assembly and I hope the people on the east side of San Francisco will do likewise with David Chiu. Also, someone I have written about here many times, Dan Choi is running for the San Francisco City College Board of Trustees and deserves your vote).

Yesterday I mentioned a new video by the Jubilee Project here.  My goodness!  Those guys are so popular that I had double the number of readers!  Maybe I should write something here about them every day.  They really do make a difference in this world after all!

 

Over the weekend a young woman with brain cancer ended her life on her own terms.  There has already been a lot said about this and People magazine and some other publications are devoting a lot of time, not only to her specifically but also to the matter of end of life decisions.  Oregon's Death With Dignity Law is getting a lot of attention because of Brittany Maynard, who died just short of her 30th birthday, and this attention can only be a good thing.  Regardless of where you stand on the issue, it is something that is seldom discussed and it needs to be.  Thank you Brittany for showing us the way.

 

Oh and one more thank you and this to the Wong Fu Productions guys.  I think they make a difference too.  They might not be trying to change the world.  I actually don't know if they have any kind of mission statement, but they have fun and they spread laughter, and that is certainly a good thing!  Click HERE to check out their attempt at putting together some puzzles (which reminds me of my quilt puzzle above).

 

Many important things in the news these days.  Stay on top of the struggle for democracy in Hong Kong.  Stay on top of the other things I have mentioned here.  Oh and most importantly, don't forget to VOTE!

what's going on this month?

We all know about Thanksgiving, and next week we have Veteran's Day, but what else happens in November?  You might be surprised at all of the observances. Here are just some of them:

It is Aviation Month, Good Nutrition Month, Hunger Awareness Month, Latin American Month, National Georgia Pecan Month, National Long Term Care Awareness Month, National Novel Writing Month, Vegan Awareness Month, and National Peanut Butter Lover's Month. It's also National Pepper Month, National AIDS Awareness Month, National American Indian Heritage Month, National Diabetes Awareness Month, National Epilepsy Month, National Stamp Collecting Month, and National Raisin Bread Month.  I can even celebrate "Getting to know my new town day."

Some are more fun than others of course and the purpose of all of them is to raise awareness, so now you know!

Comfortable

Before I plug the Jubilee Project video that they just released, I want to tell you what an important subject I think this is.  Too often we are led by media into thinking that some of us are just not all that good looking and that maybe some cosmetic surgery would be in order.  How comfortable are YOU in your body?  Is there anything YOU would change?  Think about it for a moment.

 

I love the Jubilee Project because they tackle some really important issues and they help to make us think.  They also urge us to do good things and to make a difference.(Pretty much the same as we do here, huh?  Perhaps that's why I like them).  There have been numerous blog entries here about these guys and their videos - I've been writing about them since their very beginning.  This morning I won't go back and repeat myself, but for those who haven't heard of them before, go to their website at http://jubileeproject.org/ and to view this latest video, click HERE.

 

Now from time to time I have glanced at the comments under some of their videos on youtube and am a bit shocked to see negative responses.  Already for this new video there are a number of critical messages posted.  I think one important thing to remember is that whether you agree with the message or the end result, it is the spotlight on a subject that we should zoom in on.  The Jubilee Project makes videos that raise awareness.  In the case of this new video, it's about our own beauty and how comfortable we are with our own bodies.  The Jubilee Project set up cameras and then asked one simple question.  Whether you agree with the answers or even with the premise, think about it yourself for just a few minutes.  Was there ever a time when you thought your nose was too big or maybe your breasts too small?  Did you ever regret the color of your eyes or the fullness of your cheeks?

 

There will always be Negative Nellys out there and while I will continue to push for positive attitudes, I know I won't always be successful.  That I am not alone is a very comforting feeling.  In fact, that the Jubilee Project keeps on going is a wonderful feeling!  Thanks guys for encouraging us and for opening our minds up to think.

Ripples from the other side of the world

Wherever you are in this world, you can make a difference! Today, I want to tell you some stories from Singapore because I was very moved by them myself. Singapore is a very young and diverse country with many languages, religions, and cultures. Although English is commonly spoken, so are Malay, Mandarin Chinese, and a number of other Chinese dialects, including Hokkien, Teochew, and Cantonese. The video I want you to see is in English. Click HERE to watch.

 

I love seeing programs where folks do good things for others.  If you noticed at the end of the video, there was a link to an organization in Singapore called Care and Share, a national fund-raising and volunteerism movement led by Community Chest.  There are some heartwarming stories on the Community Chest website at http://www.comchest.org.sg that I hope you will check out.  There is also more about Care and Share HERE.  Share this with your friends too (especially on twitter or facebook).

 

If you are just reading along and did not watch the video I mentioned above, I urge you to go back and take a look at it.  In it, a family struggles to pay for their purchases. A young man is reminded then of his childhood and does something quite remarkable.  Watching it warmed my heart.  It's right HERE - you can have your heart warmed too!

Whatever happened to Susan Spotless?

More and more I am discovering trash cans blocking sidewalks and litter all over, when I head out on my morning walks.  Before the sun was even up this morning, I ventured down a neighborhood alley that had so much trash on the ground that I turned around and went a different way.  Whatever happened to Susan Spotless?

 

A Keep America Beautiful campaign back in 1964 featured the character Susan Spotless and for some reason I can still hear her voice.  I actually dug up and old public service announcement featuring Susan Spotless HERE.  Check it out!

 

Litter is not a new problem.  That's proof.  It wasn't new in 1964 either.  Somehow people keep forgetting though.  We can ALL do something about this one.  Let's keep our neighborhoods, our cities, and our country beautiful so that everyone can enjoy the natural attractiveness of our world!

mouth watering holiday meals

Thanksgiving and Christmas and a number of other celebrations make your mouth water during that month or so beginning at the end of November.  Think of those office holiday parties or that banquet to celebrate the New Year.  Of course the biggest feast of the year is usually on Thanksgiving Day.  Turkey and potatoes and stuffing and cranberry sauce and maybe even some pumpkin pie!  Yum! 

 

Now picture yourself just barely able to make ends meet or perhaps not making it at all and going without meals more often than not.  Those mouth-watering holiday meals might not even be on your radar.  It would be lovely to have such a feast, but not everyone can afford it.  Well, here is an opportunity for those who have, to help those who don't have.  During the next month or so, many places set up canned food drives or special collections for holiday meals.  In addition, there are many places that serve special holiday meals for those in need.

 

Here in San Francisco places like Glide Memorial and Tenderloin Tessie's are known for stepping up at this time of year.  Other organizations are doing things too.  The Northern California Chapter of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is partnering with SF-Marin Food Bank to donate turkeys to families in need. Each individual who fundraises $250 between November 18-23 for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, will have a turkey donated in their name to SF-Marin Food Bank.  (You don't have to donate the whole $250, if you donate on my fundraising page and I can raise that amount from all of my donors, a turkey will be given!  Click HERE to help).

 

In just a few days I am moving to a new community and I already know that the local Catholic church is doing something for Thanksgiving.  There are events just about everywhere.  If there isn't something already where you live, why not start one?

They say the neon lights are bright

I can almost hear George Benson singing. "They say the neon lights are bright on Broadway. They say there's always magic in the air." Magic indeed!  How about the bright lights of Las Vegas?  For that matter, check out this picture from San Francisco.  The lights of The Castro can be pretty bright and we KNOW that magic is in the air around here!

 

And my point?  Well I could make a number of them and one might be that bright lights can bring the darkness of night into a magical party!  how about that?  Sing a song about wherever you are though my friends.  There can always be magic in the air, if we allow it.  There are dark days for all of us to be sure, but gloom and doom never puts a smile on your face.  Turn on the lights of your life and celebrate!

 

I say the neon lights are bright whenever we decide that happiness is going to win!

Arrow to the sky

I'll admit it.  I am prejudiced.  I happen to think San Francisco is the most wonderful city in the world!  I also like our skyline.  It's distinctive, but not cluttered (yet).  There is something special too about the Transamerica Building.  For me, the pointy triangle seems to be an arrow pointed at the sky.

 

I'm a happy upbeat guy and even though this blog is NOT about me, I just had to mention that I tend to be optimistic about most things.  Somehow the Transamerica Pyramid helps with that.  I recall the times my mom and I walked around downtown San Francisco and every time we would catch a glimpse of the Pyramid Building we would burst into singing "See the pyramids along the Nile."  That building pointing straight up though just seems to be saying keep getting better and keep going up!  It's encouragement from a building.

 

Oh you might be thinking I have gone crazy, but look around you.  The should be encouraging things everywhere.  This is just one of many.  It's easier to point out because it is more obvious.  We all have our own arrow to the sky though pointing us in the best directions.  What are yours?

Walking across the country for equality

One of the most incredible people I have ever met is Helene de Boissiere-Swanson, Founder of Katrina's Dream. There are so many things that make Helene the amazing woman that she is. I suppose the top of that list is love. I never have met anyone who is so full of love. I haven't known her for that many years, so I don't know how much might have come from her late husband or from her in-laws. I do know that the entire family is one where love has always been present.

I first met Helene's father-in-law, Father George Swanson, an Episcopal priest serving in New England, many years ago. Father George's late wife Katrina, was also an Episcopal priest. In fact, as one of the Philadelphia 11, she was one of the very first women to be a priest in the Episcopal Church back in 1974. So perfect too for her to be among the first because justice and equality were so important to her. When I met George and Katrina's son William, I could see immediately that he was from that family. He was full of love and commitment. Meeting William's wife Helene was an almost magical moment. The passion and the love were so visible! After Katrina's death from cancer, her husband with son William and daughter-in-law Helene founded Katrina's Dream.

 

Now I could spend a lot of time telling you amazing things about Katrina's Dream and about things that all three of them have done. I could tell you about Olof’s Brothers’ Love Feast and some truly inspiring things in Sausalito, California. There are many stories to tell though and I want to get back to Helene, so please check out some of the facts yourself by visiting the Katrina's Dream website at http://www.katrinasdream.org/

 

Last year there was sadness once again when William died in an accident, leaving Helene with the whole weight of an equality mission that she had been working on since long ago conversations with Katrina. Father George Swanson is in advanced years living on the East Coast, and still cares deeply about their mission too, but isn't physically able to do as much as he once did. Now Helene seems to be superwoman! Nothing slows her down and she certainly has had some obstacles in her way. She has also had a lot of supporters. Right now she is walking across the country!

 

Some people might not realize it, but the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) was never passed! On March 8, 2014 Helene launched her cross country pilgrimage for the ERA on International Women’s Day with a walk across the Golden Gate Bridge. Since then she has been going from town to town and from church to church and politician to politician and an effort to FINALLY get the ERA passed.

 You can follow Helene's remarkable journey at http://deboissiere.wordpress.com/

an abundance of things to write about

There is an abundance of things to write about these days. I suppose I should simply pick one thing and go with it, but I can be a bit difficult when I see so many wonderful things happening. I want to tell you more about Dan Choi's exciting energy and his plans for the future and I want to tell you the very latest about marriage equality where there seems to be new information every single day and I want to write more about many people who are making a difference every day like a woman who is walking all the way across the United States to promote the Equal Rights Amendment.  That is just a tiny bit of the huge amount of things I want to say.

 

I'm a pretty optimistic person.  I'm very sure the San Francisco Giants are again headed to the World Series, for example.  Still, there are times when the negativity in our world can be not only depressing, but almost overwhelming.  The situation in Hong Kong and the Ebola outbreak and the continued fighting in the Middle East and the hate crimes that keep being committed are all very depressing.  "Where is the good in this world?" some might ask.  Well right now I am seeing an abundance of it, and that makes me very happy.  Some of the things I want to comment on might be days away, but I'll get to them.  In the mean time, help us out by commenting on some of the good news in our comments section below.

 

There really is such an abundance of wonderful good things happening right now here locally and around the world.  That is so very encouraging!  Go out and do some wonderful things yourself and maybe I'll write something here about you too!

When Life Gives You Lemons

The other day I saw a story on one of the morning tv shows about two boys running a lemonade stand to raise money so that one of them could buy a dog. His mom had promised that if he could earn $500, the dog would be his. Enlisting the help of his friend, they were on their way and apparently having a fun time doing it too. Then they were robbed.

 

Now if you think the story ends there, you are wrong.  I could be getting ready to tell you about how mean it was to steal from these two kids who were trying to so something positive with their lives, but I'm sure you all agree with that anyway.  I could tell you about the search for the thief, but I don't know any details on that at all.  I'll just continue to tell you how the story unfolded, because it is quite inspiring.  The boys didn't give up.  In fact they re-opened their stand!

 

When word got out that they had been robbed, people came in increasing numbers to buy lemonade and tipped heavily.  A local bookstore owner gave them a copy of Diary of a Wimpy Kid with $15 enclosed and a note saying, “Please don’t lose faith in people.”  Oh and then (it keeps getting better folks) the author of that book Jeff Kinney heard all about the boy's story, and video-chatted with them, telling them to not give up, and he gave them $150 towards the new dog.  In the end the almost made enough.  Almost.

 

Don't worry.  There is a good ending here.  It seems that another neighbor gave them a dog!  Now they have money to help take care of their new pet and they have learned a good lesson too.  While there indeed are bad folks in this world, there is also a lot of good!

G is for Gullicksen

You might have thought from his thick Boston accent that Ted Gullicksen, leader of the San Francisco Tenants Union, was an outsider, but you would be so wrong. Although this was not the place of his birth, San Francisco very quickly became a place he loved and a place that loved him. As news came late yesterday of his unexpected death, great sadness came too in this place he has called home for the past 30 years. 

 

With his little dog Falcor, you would see him at meetings and protests in support of tenants rights and working hard on campaigns like Proposition G.  Ted was an organizer and a leader and he was so skilled that even those who disagreed with him, respected him.

 

Urging voters to Yes on PROP G  and stop the Ellis Act evictions was the big thing Ted was working on when his life ended yesterday.  Even though the letters assigned to propositions are assigned in order and have nothing at all to do with the subject matter, it seems somehow appropriate that Ted Gullicksen's last campaign should be Proposition G.  That G could easily stand for Gullicksen.  There will be news reports and testimonials today about Ted and likely there will be some memorials in the days ahead.  He will deserve all of the praise because he was truly a hero, but the best tribute we can give him is an overwhelming passage of Prop G.

 

Rest in peace Ted.  Nobody will evict you from heaven.  Thanks for fighting for the little guy and for all of your love.

 

Your thoughts on Hong Kong

It has been a huge news story, and I've written about it a number of times here, yet I haven't heard a single comment from you. On facebook at twitter there is a lot of chatter and many people have changed their profile pictures to yellow umbrellas. I'm talking about the fight for democracy that's going on in Hong Kong.

China took back control of Hong Kong from Britain back in 1997, and as was expected, there were some changes. Now change is not always a bad thing of course, but the issue here is representation. Should the people of Hong Kong have a voice in their future? Should anyone, for that matter, or should a few dictate how things will be for the rest of us?

Most people - perhaps ALL people who read this, will be supporters of democracy.  The issues are complex though and I really would like to hear your thoughts.  Feel free to add your comments below.

Sorry for inconvenicnce

Watching the live feed from NBC News, I see thousands of protesters out once again this morning in Hong Kong and I am seeing some amazing pictures. This one really caught my eye. "Sorry for inconvenience. We are changing Hong Kong."  By the way, the NBC News live coverage is available HERE.

 

There will be those locals there who will complain about the inconvenience and about the protesters being in the way.  I'm sure the business community has been complaining the loudest.  When rights are slowly taken away though, it effects everyone.  Everyone should care.

 

It has been amazing to me these past few days at how much the care and concern around the world has grown.  Yesterday there was yellow everywhere.  College campuses saw numerous supportive events and there were marches in various cities all in support of Hong Kong democracy.

 

In San Francisco yesterday, a large group gathered at Portsmouth Square, in Chinatown and they marched to the Hong Kong Economic Trade Office in the Financial District.  Once there, they presented a letter of solidarity with the peaceful protesters in Hong Kong, which also denounced any violence and brutality by the Hong Kong Police.

Yellow ribbons and yellow umbrellas are everywhere these days.  A LOT of people care.  Yes, to some it may be an inconvenience, but more importantly, it is the beginning of a great change.

 

 

First they came

Once ruled by Great Britain, Hong Kong was handed over to China in 1997 with promises that have since eroded and that is the basis of what we have been writing about here for the past several days. This didn't just begin, but slowly, over the last several days, people are noticing. People outside of Hong Kong are speaking up. What a wonderful thing when everyone lends their voice. We ALL need to be concerned about justice and democracy, not only in Hong Kong, but everywhere.

 

I might be mistaken, but it didn't seem like that many people were taking notice of Hong Kong at first, but slowly more and more are getting involved and are speaking out.  This reminds me of "First they came,” that famous statement attributed to pastor Martin Niemöller about the many Germans who stood by and did nothing during the Nazi rise in power. The most well known version goes like this:

 

"First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out—

Because I was not a Socialist.

Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out—

Because I was not a Trade Unionist.

Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—

Because I was not a Jew.

Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me."

 

Speak up when you see prejudice and bigotry.  Speak up when you see injustice.  Your voice can make a difference.  Never be afraid to speak up for others. We are ALL people!

Meanwhile, back in Hong Kong

We ended last month and began this one by writing here about what has been going on in Hong Kong. Democracy would be dearly welcomed by so many there, but the movement that was capturing world-wide attention just a few weeks ago, seems less popular now. Just yesterday, some government officials hinted that there might be room for maneuvering over how a committee that nominates Hong Kong's leader is selected, and that changes to elections could take place after 2017. Will this be enough? Of course even this might not happen.

 

Freedom is such a wonderful thing and many in the United States and Canada take it for granted.  Hong Kong of course has it much better than many parts of the world, to be sure, but when the British left there were changes and there continue to be changes.  That is at the heart of what this is all about.  The people of Hong Kong are not making the decisions, the Chinese government is making those decisions.

 

For a while things looked peaceful and there was hope that something positive was going to happen.  People around the world were dressing in yellow and holding up their umbrellas in solidarity.  Much of that worldwide support though seems to have faded.  News coverage was very light all along, although for a few short days it seemed to be increasing.

 

The bottom line is this:  Hong Kong is still under Chinese rule, communist rule.  It is not a democratic state.  People who live there, like people everywhere, deserve to be free.

the feast day of our city's saint

It has been six years since La Porziuncola Nuova, a scaled replica of the Porziuncola in Assisi, Italy, was dedicated at the National Shrine of Saint Francis here in San Francisco. (Porziuncola, by the way, means "small portion of land" and refers to the chapel that Blessed Francis restored when he was a young man). The church on Vallejo Street is an inspiring structure, but the Porziuncola which is housed there is simply breath-taking. Visiting it is quite a spiritual event.

I mention this because tomorrow is the Feast Day of Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron of this city. There will be animal blessings around town over the weekend and I imagine there will be some sort of celebration in all of the number of churches that bear his name. There are also Franciscan religious orders here in San Francisco.

 

You can find out about the Capuchin Roman Catholic Franciscan Friars HERE.  You can find out about the Anglican brothers HERE and the Anglican sisters HERE.  Information about secular Franciscans can be found HERE.  If you don't happen to be Roman Catholic or Anglican, you might be interested in an ecumenical group.  Click HERE for information about them.  That is only a tiny bit of the many links you might explore.  Saint Francis has many who follow in his way in a variety of religious communities and in secular life.

Here in the city of Saint Francis it isn't surprising to see such a large Franciscan presence.  A visit to many of these treasures should definitely be on your to-do list.  There's even a lovely gift shop which has a new home (that I haven't even visited yet myself).  It's Francesco Rocks at 1318 Grant Avenue and I'm told there are many lovely items featured from Assisi as well as things appropriate for baptisms, confirmations, and all kinds of gift-giving.

More on the National Shrine on Vallejo Street can be found at http://www.shrinesf.org/ including more details about the Porziuncola.  Also, click HERE to find out about the Knights of Saint Francis.  His life of poverty and preaching on the streets and his enormous love of all creation have made Saint Francis one of the most venerated religious figures in all of history.  Happy Saint Francis Day!