The Rust Belt Chronicles: gifts

Monday, December 24, 2012

T'was the Night before Christmas!

I wanted to take the opportunity to wish all of my readers and followers a Merry Christmas. I am already looking ahead towards the New Year for some exciting changes including new products to develop, some exciting interviews for the Rust Belt Chronicles and growth.

But for now, let’s focus on the true meaning of Christmas and celebrate with family, friends and (even) strangers. Going out of our way to make someone’s day special and memorable is worthy and noble. Putting a smile on somebody’s face is a way to show we care.

It’s the season of giving, not receiving.

Helping the homeless, visiting the nursing home or reaching out to someone in need are ways to share the Christmas spirit with others.

Last week, I noticed a flyer with a photo of a missing dog at my workplace. Their home had been broke into a week ago and the robbers sprayed their pet with pepper spray and although it had a radio-controlled collar it escaped from their home and yard.

While driving near our 3-park area on a icy day after work on Friday, I spotted the dog, turned the car around and pulled into the park to coax the young pup. It stared at me, turned around and ran the opposite direction towards traffic and another park.

I drove back to work, got the owner’s phone number from the flyer and contacted the couple; who verified it was their dog. The couple drove to the park which I already had returned too, to help find “Buckeye.” The mixed-breed (part shepherd), white with brown spots, was nowhere to be found.

After attending a wedding Saturday evening, my wife and I drove through the park system to locate the dog, to no avail. The owner said he was going to walk through the parks on Saturday. I hope they find their pup!

At least I gave them hope in finding that puppy!

On Christmas Eve day, I took a drive to our local Toy Time organization to drop off some toys for needy children. Unfortunately, they were closed. So my next thought was to watch for a child I could surprise with a few gifts. After picking up some groceries and walking to my car; another car parked beside me in the parking lot. In the car were a mother and a little girl around 5 years old.

I asked the mother of the small child if she would be interested in the gifts. The mother asked her daughter and her little face lit up with happiness. I gave her the gifts and she thanked me and wished me- a Merry Christmas.

One out of two good deeds isn’t bad because it’s the thought that matters most!

I want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas!

Until We Meet Again,
Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.

Sunday, October 7, 2012

One Powerful Little Lesson!

Years ago, my sponsor suggested I do something positive towards someone else’s life. He asked that I perform this feat at least three times daily and if the person found out about the deed, the attempt did not count.

The point of the exercise served to:

· Avoid selfish thinking by focusing on others.

· Become selfless, by helping others.

· See the people, situations and the world in a different light.

· Understand how lucky we are and grateful we should be.

· Realize the power we have in making a difference in someone’s life.

· Give me something to do in my free time to prevent boredom.

· Replace bad habits with positive results.

At the time, I didn’t realize the full potential of trying this experiment (probably since I was too selfishly focused on my own needs). The idea sounded neat and it has been a “special tip” that I’ve managed to carry throughout my life.

I love using this technique on total strangers. I sometimes stick around to witness the look of surprise on the faces of the people affected by an act of generosity. It is beyond words to see the gratitude on their faces (and not knowing who to thank).

Several years ago, I was in a hospital cafeteria and a grieving family came into the room to purchase a meal. It was clear someone in their family had just passed away. The family were sobbing and weeping profusely . They could barely hold onto their trays and frankly, the family did not appear to be financially blessed. I felt so bad for this woman and her children.

I felt moved to do something.

I carefully drifted over to the cashier and subtly asked her to put the entire amount of the family’s bill onto my tab. I walked out of the cafeteria at least feeling a little better for that family. It was all I could do.

Months later, someone in management mentioned witnessing the event that day, but didn’t know my name. It was nice to hear (through my wife) how this grieving family was taken by surprise in their time of sorrow and how my act momentarily lifted their spirits.

You see, it doesn’t take three business degrees, a fancy title or a millionaire in order to make a difference in someone's life.

It only requires our focus to change a moment in someone’s life and leave an unforgettable impression.

That one powerful little lesson Brad asked me to follow thirty years ago is still reaping rewards.

Thank you- Brad (wherever you are)!

When was the last time you secretly helped someone?

Try it- It’s worth it!