Let’s Be Thankful, But Let’s Act Directly, Too
Thanksgiving, 2008
A day to reflect and give thanks for the life we have. I know I am thankful, thankful for living in the USA, thankful for the freedoms we have, the democratic institutions, the system of risk and reward, the innovation, the generosity of our people, our penchant for thinking and acting strategically, and the peaceful transition of power, among other things. As difficult as things are, right here, right now, they could be much, much worse.
I saw a story about a woman, Monique White, in Colorado who, a year ago, had run into difficult times. In the past year, she and her husband, Doug, were able to land new jobs and purchase a townhouse. On a lark, she placed a Craigslist ad inviting people to her house for Thanksgiving. You can read about it here. Thirty-two people responded to the ad, and all are coming to her house today. The story quotes Doug White
That’s what Thanksgiving is about: Helping other people out however you can.
That’s a really positive message. I have always responded positively to entreaties to direct action. What do I mean by “direct action”? For me, direct action means performing deeds directly for, or providing help directly to, those we intend to help. It is a little bit like eliminating - or at least reducing - the middle man. The opportunities for direct action are, of course, unlimited. Here are just a few examples:
- For conservation, consider donating to Nature Conservancy.
- For children’s relief, consider sponsoring a child internationally through Plan International or nationally through Children Inc.
- For low-income housing, consider donating your time to your local Habitat for Humanity affiliate.
Monique and Doug White are acting directly. Thank you, Monique and Doug, for helping to remind me what Thanksgiving is all about. For their kindness and good deeds, I recognize the White’s with the first ever Thought Docket Seal of Approval.