Time, energy, money, positivity...
I believe everyone has the capacity to make a difference and the originators of “Giving Tuesday“, a tradition started in 2012, say it best:
“Whether it’s making someone smile, helping a neighbor or stranger out, showing up for an issue or people we care about, or giving some of what we have to those who need our help, every act of generosity counts, and everyone has something to give.”
This year “Giving Tuesday” falls on December 2 and I hope you don’t mind, but I’m highlighting my favorite worthy organization, Clearbrook, once again. Thank you to those of you who responded so lovingly – with comments and kindness, monetary donations and volunteerism efforts last year – in support of individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, just like my sweet sister, Lisa.
I wish I could say circumstances have improved over the past twelve months, but I can’t. There is a dire cloud hanging over the heads of those who are different, vulnerable, in need. Not just dear ones like Lisa, but individuals who’ve been maligned and disenfranchised due to horrific decision-making in our nation’s capital. I’m not one to be overtly political, but the most recent insanity from our President, once again using the derogatory “R” word…is beyond me. The bullying is shameful and sadly, it makes the road he’s paved with his ignorance and arrogance worse than ever. My dear blogging friend and author, Vickie Rubin, wrote a powerful piece on this topic last year and here we are again. Please take a look: “The ‘R’ Word Cuts Like a Knife“.
My sister is a blessing, a joy and a gift. Like her friends, coworkers and the staff at Clearbrook, they deserve praise and support for their fortitude to keep going. Never stopping. Lobbying for what’s right thanks to a relentless belief in the power of good.
Last year I highlighted Clearbrook’s impact in this post and the need, sadly is still great. Join me, this coming Tuesday, to consider where and how you might support worthy causes. Every dollar, every hug, every high five offered to the warriors who keep at it…soldiering on in the face of scurrilous choices matters so much.
When I drove Lisa back to her Clearbrook group home after the Thanksgiving holiday we passed two scenes of activists and protesters, weathering the cold while seeking charitable donations for local food pantries. Lisa’s not able to read much beyond that of a second grader but she understood the signs and what they meant, picking out the words “kindness” and “food“. Lisa’s big heart – her desire to help others despite her own challenges – invariably makes me a better person.
And so…thank you for being here. Thank you for reading. Love and hugs – from me and Lisa, too.
Vicki 💝
Hi – I’m Victoria, Vicki, Dr. Vicki. I hold a doctorate in Adult Education and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and author of Surviving Sue | Eckhartz Press.
Check out this link to learn more about my book “Surviving Sue”.
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Victoria Ponders 
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