Giving Thanks

November is here!
The weather is now very conducive to hot drinks and hearty meals, fresh baked bread, and warm fires.
While part of the country is cleaning up the messes left by the latest storm, we are in the final days leading up to the national election.
One more week.
And in the past couple of years of rancor, name-calling, finger-pointing, and us-vs-them some folks have been quietly doing good things. Rich folks. Some even from that 1% we have been so angry about.

I would like to say Thank You to the people who have expressed gratitude for the financial success they have found rather than entitlement.

And Bless You to those who feel that the best way to demonstrate that gratitude is by using that success to enrich all our lives, and to help others to achieve success as well.
George Lucas just made the news with his statement that the majority of the proceeds from his sale of Lucasarts will go to charity. He is one member of a wonderful group called The Giving Pledge started by Bill and Melinda Gates and Warren Buffet:

The Giving Pledge is an effort to invite the wealthiest individuals and families in America to commit to giving the majority of their wealth to the philanthropic causes and charitable organizations of their choice either during their lifetime or after their death.
Each person who chooses to pledge will make this statement publicly, along with a letter explaining their decision to pledge. At an annual event, those who take the pledge will come together to share ideas and learn from each other.
The Pledge is a moral commitment to give, not a legal contract. It does not involve pooling money or supporting a particular set of causes or organizations.

While the Giving Pledge is specifically focused on billionaires, the idea takes its inspiration from efforts in the past and at present that encourage and recognize givers of all financial means and backgrounds. We are inspired by the example set by millions of Americans who give generously (and often at great personal sacrifice) to make the world a better place.

Thank You!