I Want to Start a Movement: Inspiring Patterns Matter

Angela and her husband are examples of two people who are truly grateful for all that life has offered them and brought their way. They often give generously of their time, and do their best to inspire gratitude and generosity in their two young children. Angela and her husband have been looking for opportunities to volunteer as a family, but many of the options they’ve found haven’t been suited for young children. So they decided to develop their own! Now each Advent season they ask their children to give away a couple of their toys; at first, the children weren’t too happy but they eventually got into a routine of doing so.

Months after the most recent Advent season, there was a natural disaster shown on the news; and the coverage included a picture of a young child crying. Angela’s son saw the photo and asked why the little boy was crying; Angela explained that he and his family had lost everything in the storm. Upon hearing this Angela’s son ran to his room and brought back a toy. He announced to his mom that she should mail the toy to the child on TV.

Generosity of the spirit is something you can inspire in others; each of us has the power to do so. The spirit of generosity is not just about giving things; it’s about patterns of all types that can help bring out the best in others and provide opportunities for everyone to share all gifts with the world.

Does someone inspire you? How?

Do you ask for input from others?

Do you paint a picture of hope and positive expectations for your work team and/or your community?

Do you share your concerns and ask for help?
Do you offer people an opportunity to shine?
Do you find ways for people to give of their talents?

As you ponder this story, evaluate how you use your power. What do you inspire? Challenge yourself to explore the possibilities!