Thanksgiving has at all times 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 appear so much totally different this yr, which suggests 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 present 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 present 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 bunch of executives, and we had the chance to go to her House for the Pure Coronary heart, previously often known as Mom Teresa’s Kalighat House for the Dying and Destitute. The expertise (which I recalled in this weblog publish) had an amazing impression on me.

In all places 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, after we spoke with Mom Teresa, she shocked me by expressing her appreciation for what we did—how companies can present folks with jobs and enhance their lives.

Then, she added a delicate admonition I’ve by no means forgotten: “If in case you have cash . . . use it,” she mentioned. “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 present thanks for simply how fortunate I’ve been, and an amazing want to present 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 spite of everything, and we actually cope with cash every single day. And whereas it could actually’t essentially purchase happiness, cash does purchase alternatives: to chase our desires, to help 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 planet. An enormous a part of that has been launching The Elevate Prize. A few of you might have heard my discuss “Making a Profound Distinction” at our current Nationwide Convention, the place I highlighted the progress we’ve made with The Elevate Prize. However for individuals who don’t know, it’s an annual seek for changemakers, whereby its winners aren’t simply awarded cash but additionally complete help (together with 1:1 mentorship, instructional 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 superb. I’m humbled and impressed by the work they’ve carried out already, and I’m excited to see what’s doable with our assist.

As a result of a part of the mission of The Elevate Prize is to catalyze constructive change and awaken the hero in all of us, we imagine 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 in regards to the unbelievable 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 House for the Pure Coronary heart.

Motivating All of Us to Struggle 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 occurring 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 group, our advisors, and everybody who helps make our success doable. With out you, The Elevate Prize merely couldn’t have grow to be a actuality. So, thanks, all!

I hope you and your family members have an exquisite vacation season.