Hey everyone! I was reading through this blog and came across one of the most amazing and heartfelt giveaways i've ever seen... and just in time for the holidays!
A Grateful Day is sponsoring a giveaway centered on the aspect of giving to others.
In order to enter the contest, you have to do a good deed in hopes of inspiring others and then post it on your blog. This isn't even about the giveaway, it's about reading everyones amazing stories and seeing that there really is good going on. I think it's such a good idea and began thinking of some of the things I have done over the last couple of months. They're not huge things, but seeing the people I've helped smile have made me happier than I could have ever imagined!
Over the summer, while completing my yoga teacher certification, I came across a program that taught children with down syndrome yoga. All the teachers that taught the classes did it free of charge; dedicating their own time to helping these children I signed up for it as a helper and it was the highlight of my summer. I loved working with the kids and seeing their faces light up when the mastered a pose... even if it was something really simple. I actually bonded with this one little girl. She was incredibly shy and wouldn't warm up to anyone easily. After weeks of working with her, she began to open up to me... just seeing her smile completely made my day. It's amazing how the tiniest things make people happy and it was an experience that I will never forget. I loved it so much I am currently in works to teaching my own yoga class next summer with these children. I loved knowing I was a positive influence on children's lives!
Realizing how much I loved helping children, I organized a swim-a-thon for Operation Smile this year after a friend told me about the organization. It was a ton of work, but we successfully raised $4,000 for the cause during the event. I was so surprised how fast people signed up, and how many families gave "a little extra" just because it was an amazing cause. I melted my heart knowing how many people were willing to participate in something to help Operation Smile. I am so thankful for everyone who donated and participated.
I realize these two things aren't huge. I haven't changed the world, but they completely changed my view on a lot of things and brought a smile to my face. I encourage everyone to check out A Grateful Day, blog about what you have done for others lately, and enter the giveaway which ends December 7th.
have fun:)
hey, how did you organize the swim-a-thon?
ReplyDelete-- Albert
Albert,
ReplyDeletei first went to a swim team and asked if they'd be willing to participate. i had a lot of my friends, my sisters friends, and swimmers willing to swim. then they got sponsors per lap they swam or for a total amount! it was really great. we had music and food. everyone really enjoyed swimming for a good cause and so many people were willing to make donations! :)