Sh@re My Daddy Says | My Daddy's Thoughts On Giving

The 10 Foot Rule.

My father always preached that if we made it our responsibility to help, encourage, and take care of those within our 'ten foot' radius (in other words, those individuals in our own community), the world would be a much better place! I had the opportunity to travel to Africa in 2009 and meet some amazing individuals. These special people

taught me more than they will ever know!

To American standards we would say that most of these individuals had 'nothing' however they were some of the happiest people I have ever met! I would have loved to continue traveling all over the world and giving my time to those in 'need', but that is not realistic for me. Instead I decided to reflect on the Rule my father always put into practice and take responsibility for those in need in my own community!

It is easy to put on blinders and neglect this responsibility. We often assume that the only children without a pillow to lie their head on at night or the only senior citizens going to bed hungry are found in third world countries. WRONG! If you are under this impression, be observant, you won't have to look much further than your own backyard to conclude that there are plenty in need all around us.

I am just suggesting one hour a month! Think of the change we could make if we all took one hour out of busy schedules to put the Ten Foot Rule into action and make a difference in the life of one individual! If one hour a month ever seems like too much, do what my friend Linda at Second Harvest Food Bank recommends... drive down Graham St. at 5 a.m. in the morning and tell the little 3 year old girl sleeping at the bus stop with her mommy that you are too busy to make it your responsibility that she have a meal that day! It is easy to judge and blame those in needy situations for their 'misfortune', but think about the many times someone helped you without asking any questions. Get creative! Make it a family affair or get a group of friends together and take an hour to give back before dinner!

This past week I had the opportunity to meet and talk with other volunteers at Second Harvest. I quickly learned that I was one of only two Charlotte natives! There were volunteers from all over the world, not just the states there with smiles, ready to give their time! Charlotte has always been home to me so I have a special connection and desire to embrace this community. It is mine. I was elated to witness all the individuals who have made this community their own and made it their responsibility to apply the Ten Foot Rule.

Get involved in your own community! If you have just moved somewhere new, what a great way to meet new people! Start off making one hour a month your goal and I promise you will make a point to find more free time to make it your responsibility to make a difference! If you live in the Charlotte area, start by checking out www.handsoncharlotte.org!

'BE THE CHANGE YOU WISH TO SEE IN THE WORLD!'