One day during  March my friend Raquel Thomas Caesar came to visit and I was preparing gifts and hampers for women. My home was in total confusion because of all the items but saw peace and joy. She asked me “Why don’t you write about the joy of giving in your column?” She went on to say that what she admires most about me is the numerous lives I contribute to that are not public. My friend Eion says that to me often. Maybe I just might do that because I truly enjoy giving and I am doing it today.

“Always give without remembering and always receive without forgetting.” I love these words by Brian Tracy. My cousin told me a story about something that happened years ago and I still can’t remember. She said she needed money for a minor surgery that her mom could not afford and without hesitation, I offered to pay and I did. I inherited my ability to give freely from my mom Claudia and she certainly inherited it from gramma Winifred. My foster dad Allan John had the heart to give even more than me.  They all found a way to bless others from the little they had. Back then I was not too happy that they were giving away the little we had but I am happy now for that lesson because it was nurturing my philanthropic journey.

They made me realise you don’t have a lot to give to others. Sharing your lunch with a co worker, or buying an extra loaf of bread for a neighbour or cutting the grass for the seniors in your community and so many other small things.  I know of people that paid for courses for others and that was the positive turn in their lives.

If you have ever bought an outfit from me you have assisted me to give because a big part of it went to help others. Now I do the same with my books and courses so if you buy one of my books from Austin’s Books Services or from me you are making a contribution indirectly. Part proceeds from the last virtual Writers Retreat went towards personal care packages that were distributed not only in Georgetown but other parts of Guyana.

That retreat is in collaboration with Claudia Vidal and she did not hesitate when I discussed that we should contribute. I would like to acknowledge the other  persons and businesses who contributed to this meaningful initiative: Monica Trotz, Mary Kay Consultant, Vanda Radzik, Matthew Langevine, Raquel Thomas Caesar, Alicia Daniel, Ann Kingston, Rawle Jordan, Vintrice Simone De Sinco, Mings Products and Services, Adams Trading, German’s Restaurant, The Period Box, Giftland  and KVC Hotels. I did mention in a previous column the persons who contributed to the March projects.
I know a few of the names mentioned above will call me if they read this column because they did not do it because it would be in the papers but is good to acknowledge people when they do good.

We still have many good things happening in  the world but unfortunately most media prefer to highlight most of the bad depressing things. We also need people to contribute even if no one else will know  but you, God and the people who benefit.

Many times people need to know if the pic with their names will be in the papers or on TV in interviews etc. We need to be sensitive especially when giving food and personal items to people. Too many times you see pics on social media and the people are looking embarrassed. I am aware businesses require PR but the consciousness needs to be displayed.  Many times I wish I could write a cheque to take care of all the philanthropic work I am a part of but that is not possible yet but will be in the near future God’s willing.

Sometimes soliciting assistance can make you feel like a beggar and sometimes I feel it is deliberate. Can you call back next week and then the next week or I will call you back. Many times I say a prayer and I call back because the people are in need. When we were doing the recent project, the owner of a janitorial service’s favourite day was Monday to make the contribution and Monday never came lol. Some companies also give things that they are not selling rather than things that are needed. What is your WHY for giving?

Some of my colleagues are supportive and some think I invest too much time in charity work that does not earn me money but I will continue until I expire. Many may not understand my passion for what I do but that is because I believe that I am fulfilling a purpose.
“No one has ever become poor by giving.” I also believe that.

A big thank you to the  people  who are finding joy in giving and I encourage you to make it contagious as we continue to celebrate this beautiful journey called life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.