Thanksgiving has all the time been my favourite vacation, and it kicks off what, for me, is a really particular time of yr. The vacations are more likely to feel and look so much completely different this yr, which implies it’s extra vital than ever to embrace the spirit of the season. The occasions of 2020 have shaken us all—they usually’re a reminder of simply how lucky many people are.

The chance to provide thanks is a giant a part of why I really like this time of yr. For me, although, these annual celebrations are additionally a reminder to provide extra than simply thanks.

Linking Gratitude to Giving

Years in the past, I had the distinct pleasure of assembly Mom Teresa. I had traveled to Calcutta with a gaggle of executives, and we had the chance to go to her Dwelling for the Pure Coronary heart, previously often known as Mom Teresa’s Kalighat Dwelling for the Dying and Destitute. The expertise (which I recalled in this weblog put up) had an incredible affect on me.

All over the place I regarded, there was struggling, but it was countered by the palpable compassion of the sisters who cared for the sufferers. It was extraordinarily poignant. Later, once we spoke with Mom Teresa, she stunned me by expressing her appreciation for what we did—how companies can present folks with jobs and enhance their lives.

Then, she added a mild admonition I’ve by no means forgotten: “When you’ve got cash . . . use it,” she stated. “Don’t simply depart it within the financial institution. Put it to work.”

I used to be struck by two emotions throughout that have: wanting to provide thanks for simply how fortunate I’ve been, and an awesome need to provide again. One feeling naturally led to the opposite.

Gratitude is inextricably linked to giving.

Exchanging Cash for What Actually Issues

At Commonwealth, cash is on the root of what we do—we’re a for-profit enterprise, in any case, and we actually take care of cash day-after-day. And whereas it could possibly’t essentially purchase happiness, cash does purchase alternatives: to chase our desires, to assist our households, and to enhance the lives of others. One of many classes I’ve taken from my 40-plus years at Commonwealth is that cash is a medium of trade. We trade it for what actually issues.

Recently, what issues to me has more and more included philanthropy, a logical extension of Commonwealth’s dedication to creating a profound distinction on the earth. An enormous a part of that has been launching The Elevate Prize. A few of you will have heard my speak about “Making a Profound Distinction” at our latest Nationwide Convention, the place I highlighted the progress we’ve made with The Elevate Prize. However for many who don’t know, it’s an annual seek for changemakers, whereby its winners aren’t simply awarded cash but in addition complete help (together with 1:1 mentorship, academic coaching, and entry to skilled networks) to assist scale their worthy causes. I’m excited to announce that we now have our first cohort of winners! They’re all wonderful. I’m humbled and impressed by the work they’ve carried out already, and I’m excited to see what’s potential with our assist.

As a result of a part of the mission of The Elevate Prize is to catalyze optimistic change and awaken the hero in all of us, we consider an vital a part of realizing that is to additionally present our winners with a platform: to share their tales and broaden their viewers and to assist create a worldwide fanbase for them.

When extra folks hear concerning the unimaginable work these social heroes are doing, they’ll really feel impressed to take motion themselves—simply as I felt when seeing the work being carried out by the sisters on the Dwelling for the Pure Coronary heart.

Motivating All of Us to Battle for a Higher Future

It’s been a difficult yr for the entire world. Nevertheless it’s additionally shone a light-weight on these people and organizations who’re utilizing what’s taking place round us as motivation to combat for a greater future. I’m so honored to be part of serving to these heroes make the world a greater place.

Which brings me again to giving thanks: I’m enormously grateful to the Commonwealth workforce, our advisors, and everybody who helps make our success potential. With out you, The Elevate Prize merely couldn’t have develop into a actuality. So, thanks, all!

I hope you and your family members have a beautiful vacation season.