Sunday Morning Reflections - Giving Back

© Krasimira Nevenova

The other day I recorded a Weekend Wisdom podcast with Gina Harris, CEO of Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep. I'm an ambassador for the association and couldn't be more proud of the photographers involved. Well, the podcast went live yesterday and I'll have a major post tomorrow, but it got me thinking about the topic of giving back.

"Any time you have an opportunity to make a difference in this world and you don't, 
then you're wasting your time on Earth."
Roberto Clemente

This is just a short post this morning with a simple question, "What are doing to give back?"

Easy right? We're an industry where, no matter what you're doing, you've got either a skill set or a network to help you give back. I'm so often asked for advice on various charities. I'm a huge fan of NILMDTS, but the issue is about giving back at any level. There's no such things as an effort too small.

From mentoring a photographer just starting out, to working with the local high school on a better yearbook, there's something or someone in your community who needs help. Even easier, being involved in your community in some way doesn't have to involve photography, just a little effort and your time.

I'm so surprised over the number of people who do so little and think that a donation to a particular charity once a year is enough.  When put on the spot, they'll respond with something about looking for the right charity. You're not buying a car, just getting involved in helping people. 

I guess I'm in a sports mode this morning...here's a classic from Muhammad Ali:

"Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth." 

As always, wishing everybody a wonderful Sunday and time to hug somebody you love for at least eleven seconds; time to cherish the life you have and plenty of laughs and giggles for no reason at all.