Dane DeValcourt

I read a post today by Chris Pirillo titled “Receiving the Gift of Giving“.  Chris had the opportunity to do something that I wish everyone could do and that is give to those less fortunate.  I hate the words “less fortunate” to be honest because often these individuals are much more fortunate than most in my opinion.  Most of us measure fortune by the amount of money one has or their possessions.  However if you spent some real time with those deemed “less fortunate” in our society you will likely find their treasures and fortune are abundant in other ways.

They tend to be less stressed and happier on any given day.  While many of us are racing around in this rat race and trying to keep up with the Jones’s, they are able to take comfort in some of the simplier things in life.

Chris is now offering up the opportunity for others to do good and share in his experience but many seem to be missing this opportunity as that and are stuck on what they can get from him.  I really hope others see this as the opportunity it is and not as just a means to make themselves happy.  Chris didn’t specify this as a catch to winning the giveaways but I am sure he is hoping that winners will help carry on this gift of giving.

I know we all tend to idolize our fathers and put them on pedastels, and no my father is no saint thats for sure.  But he has done a good job I think of making me realize just how fortunate I am in life and the importance of sharing and giving.  He has done this through a simple gesture.  Throughout the year their are various opportunities to give someone gifts.  Anytime someone asks what they could buy him, he simply requests for others to only give him new stuffed animals and toys. He then takes these around Christmas time to the local children’s hospital for the kids to ensure that as many as possible get something this time of the year and aren’t forgotten. I know this simple act has led many others in the family and outside to start doing the same. His motivation is simple and I never questioned it knowing his past and growing up in an orphanage and boys home.

Chris please consider this post as my formal request to be entered into the Star Wars Smiles give away. If selected I plan to turn the gift over to my father to help with his tradition and to extend your gift of giving a little further.