WHAT DO YOU FIND BEAUTIFUL?

Recently I encountered a question on Fresh New England's blog, "What do you find beautiful?" As many of you probably know, I find tremendous beauty in nature, farms and naturally the fresh produce at the farmer's market. Being surrounded by such incredible beauty has inspired much thought for me about what I see as beautiful, and why.

I've had much time to think about that question prior to being asked. In a very profound way, I find those same magical feelings of inspiration and overwhelming admiration whenever I feel kindness from people. For me kindness, compassion and generosity are the some of the most beautiful things that I've ever 'witnessed' in my life. It's a beauty that is so powerful that it inspires me to be the most beautiful i.e. kind person that I can be everyday.

Because this is the season to be thankful, I thought it would be appropriate to share some ways for all of us to spread kindness, and help out in simple but meaningful ways, and at the same time remind ourselves of all the things that we can be grateful for. This year, more so than in any other year in recent memory, will be a slim one for many. We've all heard the stories of people losing their jobs, their homes, and worse yet, their hope.  I am among the 10.2% and growing population of unemployed, so I understand the stress and anxiety related.

What can we do?

1. LEAD. There are many ways that each of us can help, the limits are only bounded by creativity and inspiration.  I found one notable example of a creative way to help from T.W. Barritt's blog Culinary Types on how one woman, Lydia Walshin who started  Drop In & Decorate, a party to bake and decorate cookies to donate to nonprofit agencies. The joy she must bring to people in need and times of despair is immeasurable and quite inspiring!
   
2. GIVE. There are many ways to give this holiday season. Since I'm a food blogger and the upcoming holiday is Thanksgiving, it would only be natural to suggest the gift of food. Recently, Erin Lamberty of Attention Blog, reached out to inform me that  BJ's Wholesale Club, is collecting food donations at all of their Club locations until November 15th. As part of their charitable campaign, BJ's Charitable Foundation will donate the financial equivalent of one million meals to Feeding America's Food Bank network partners. Every little bit helps, so if you can please give.
   
3. SHARE. If you know of other ways that each of us can help out, please let us know in your comments for this post: links to charities, stories of what you have done in the past, or creative/inspiring ideas of what you've heard would be very much appreciated. Also, please feel free to share this post with friends, and fellow bloggers to spread the word. Much like the positive chain reaction each of the aforementioned individuals have inspired, you too can continue to make an impact by writing, blogging and sharing. With your ideas and participation we can continue this powerful momentum to make the world a kinder and more beautiful place.