tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75163954406898744822024-02-19T04:58:52.341-06:00BE the 1Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.comBlogger44125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-35252920146154657292012-01-18T17:05:00.000-06:002012-01-18T17:05:41.551-06:00Quote of the Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPJGprX94TGXnliCLJphl64x1-GMkdK4fJkoaCNlzDT2D2JwBDrM4x0RRfS-iB7-DbcA0QYlRwim-Xzb0t-2BBsymH-x3ZtFKaFPn_JNeBIrGRlMRrY88AzdoRJAI2UfAs6GtNBjE4ev2Q/s1600/smile2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPJGprX94TGXnliCLJphl64x1-GMkdK4fJkoaCNlzDT2D2JwBDrM4x0RRfS-iB7-DbcA0QYlRwim-Xzb0t-2BBsymH-x3ZtFKaFPn_JNeBIrGRlMRrY88AzdoRJAI2UfAs6GtNBjE4ev2Q/s320/smile2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Arial;">Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around. <br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> - Leo Buscaglia </span></span>Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07370846208236087412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-90546584156967003912011-12-28T17:37:00.002-06:002011-12-29T11:01:24.218-06:00Good Deed Story: A Christmas Angel delivers more then a gift[<i>I received this story from my high school friend, Gwen. She has been involved with the Shop with a Cop program for 5 years, 4 years as the Director in her town. This years' experience was especially unique. May you be inspired to <b><span style="color:#e06666;">Be the 1</span></b> too. <3 Due to privacy, full names have been removed. ]</i><br /><br /><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ1IYZPEjhRBw0nvXArIjonH_eh25vt7gM8bKoX5SIghw17zbdEvakV9QwholCGY5EH1ebtVhN4U067CYHTKoFR3NtD73fdyGegLQjnAuazyQvze090d6CP1fckqNe-Lwd9v2ic1eLR-I/s1600/381541_10150444904079234_173198604233_8574719_390937422_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ1IYZPEjhRBw0nvXArIjonH_eh25vt7gM8bKoX5SIghw17zbdEvakV9QwholCGY5EH1ebtVhN4U067CYHTKoFR3NtD73fdyGegLQjnAuazyQvze090d6CP1fckqNe-Lwd9v2ic1eLR-I/s320/381541_10150444904079234_173198604233_8574719_390937422_n.jpg" height="212" width="320" border="0" /></a>During the fundraising and nomination process for the shop with a cop program this year I anxiously awaited The "R" Family to be nominated. Finally for the list from the school and there they were. I met this family for the first time last year with the program and was completly touched by them.<br /><br />Elizabeth (Grandmother) "R" is raising her 5 grandchildren. The mother to these children has been MISSING since 2004. To this point she has not been declared deceased so Social Security for the children does not exist. She survives off of $525 a month. All of the phone number that the school left for them were disconnected, I sent officers to her house to invite them to the program event. They came and with them was a small 2 year old girl that would not have qualified for the program. Elizabeth and this small child roamed through wal mart while the other children shopped with the police officer. I had a few minutes to chat with Elizabeth and I told her that I sent her name in also for a Christmas food basket and asked if they had enough food. Mrs. "R" as humble as always stated that they had plenty but it is hard to buy groceries due to the refrigerator they have not working properly. And the only vehicle that they own doesnt have reverse (but runs good on the interstate) I decided that the small child needed Christmas, the program had the funds, and gave Mrs. "R" the money to take that child to go shopping. We also gave her an additional 200 dollars for non perishable groceries.<br /><br />On the way home my husband and I with heavy hearts decided that we needed to find her a fridge. It took me 4 days but I found her one. We are due to deliver it tonight. She says Im one of Gods True life angels. Best Christmas Gift I have ever had!</blockquote><br />Its moments like these where you may find yourself hearing a need that's much greater then the present moment....and if you can, respond to it. <3 Thank you Gwen for sharing your story. Im SURE that it will inspire others. Thanks for <b style="color: #e06666;">Being the 1</b>!Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-46384236950306740352011-12-22T12:52:00.003-06:002011-12-22T12:55:12.986-06:00Quote of the Week<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVAmOK6fgdix98YgmgPKQaZMLE-BO6O5lUNBIo1311xPgpyc0OAcR161LU8J1O8cNw91_CBZ6nIiGTL2s-yVhhBia6YyqeXQWDJQ9AcKa2Zxcehyphenhyphen0z9LtD6X-ZlKbcRyau6feqzpK66PTK/s1600/xmas.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVAmOK6fgdix98YgmgPKQaZMLE-BO6O5lUNBIo1311xPgpyc0OAcR161LU8J1O8cNw91_CBZ6nIiGTL2s-yVhhBia6YyqeXQWDJQ9AcKa2Zxcehyphenhyphen0z9LtD6X-ZlKbcRyau6feqzpK66PTK/s320/xmas.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689027896344182546" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;" class="body" >"Let us not be satisfied with just giving money. Money is not enough, money can be got, but they need your hearts to love them. So, spread your love everywhere you go." </span> <span class="bodybold"><a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/m/mothertere153714.html">Mother Teresa</a></span>Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07370846208236087412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-35372805564131623952011-12-12T13:47:00.034-06:002011-12-12T17:45:40.472-06:00Be a part of Christmas Magic: We all need a little JOY in our lives<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvokh38yfWuX7GjTZImywht1Bt2Ciq5V3jCiSvxvdd8YvILJCme2LKyCj2Zc389Us4Zrppm0qSn8SEE3flGQTX6YxsRaitIOrnr5EJSeWSoG6NGQLuKKZMqA8JeRtaKpLBRhFMS1MWByw/s1600/IMG_1281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqVKK7ThGHKBPIg_HNzUJLsahyphenhyphenEFr9h49GqulPP4QRMvMMrZ37zn_9FwaE-NLd0tIByZPSW_cOmtCqResfD2KP_iglHoVr5pr0rPDaZXAWAJ9ORxhW4qB7IOsfL3Gh_Ec-Z3sM1OyBpQA/s1600/slide-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqVKK7ThGHKBPIg_HNzUJLsahyphenhyphenEFr9h49GqulPP4QRMvMMrZ37zn_9FwaE-NLd0tIByZPSW_cOmtCqResfD2KP_iglHoVr5pr0rPDaZXAWAJ9ORxhW4qB7IOsfL3Gh_Ec-Z3sM1OyBpQA/s400/slide-12.jpg" width="400" border="0" height="300" /></a></div>"We all need a little JOY in our lives." That's a quote directly derived from my Facebook wall post this week when I shared a link about JOY. I thought it was fitting.<br /><br />[<i>Editor note: A week ago I received a forwarded email from a mutual friend about the program called <a href="http://volunteer.truist.com/olmsted/org/10390212146.html" target="_blank">JOY (Justice & Opportunity for Youth)</a>. As I read the email authored by a Karen Edmonds, I sensed a clear feeling of urgency…but also….the email was infused with deep love and care for the kids involved in JOY. I had tears streaming down my face by the time I got to the end. Not only did I HAVE to interview Karen about JOY for the Be the 1 blog…..but it couldn't stop there. We had to use whatever platform we could to communicate the needs to support the JOY program and people like Karen that make such a huge positive impact on our community. I sent a note to Karen asking if I could interview her. I was delighted to get a response back that she would! We met this last Tuesday. Here's what happened.</i>]<br /><br />As you read this blog post, I'm not going to be asking for just help. I'm going to be asking for the extraordinary. Because once you're done reading…you're not going to be able to look away either. (At least I hope not)<br /><br />When Karen walked through the door, we both instantly went to each other and hugged. I felt such a kindred spirit emanate from her….a calm breeze of strength and genuine passion for JOY and the kids involved in JOY. We sat at our table and instantly started discussing JOY and what it does (in fact, she barely ate her food while she talked and I listened. Sorry Karen! I owe you lunch!)<br /><blockquote style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://volunteer.truist.com/olmsted/org/10390212146.html" target="_blank">JOY (Justice & Opportunity for Youth)</a> exists to serve the very high risk youth in the Rochester area. The objective is to move these youth from lives engaged in, or on the fringe of, gang activity toward lives that will be productive and fulfilled. Intensive outreach is the key to engaging these youth and getting them into a program where they learn that their circumstances can't control them if they work to control the circumstances in which they find themselves.</blockquote><blockquote style="background-color: white;"><b>JOYS Mission:</b> Every young person counts, every child matters and every child can change. JOY will be relentless in getting help to and for disengaged and disenfranchised young people in order for them to move out of violence and poverty into meaningful engaged lives as adults.</blockquote><table class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE0VaRBu9l0WLW3rNzSKlcIA_GLToZyZ8p-3J7yB8rsGQcJgaxeOfJveSgR9g9lHs685qB992WPBxrdpln-3L5Q9C3Emy-0SDvVBYMVL4A6DB62ApNSyWTVoqIvNpJpFRCyfIi_A2Gprc/s1600/IMAG0153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE0VaRBu9l0WLW3rNzSKlcIA_GLToZyZ8p-3J7yB8rsGQcJgaxeOfJveSgR9g9lHs685qB992WPBxrdpln-3L5Q9C3Emy-0SDvVBYMVL4A6DB62ApNSyWTVoqIvNpJpFRCyfIi_A2Gprc/s320/IMAG0153.jpg" width="320" border="0" height="191" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">JOY Youth Yoga</td></tr></tbody></table>Karen started a yoga group that involved 3 teen girls in October of 2008 and had planned to do it for 6 weeks. Those 6 weeks turned into 3 years and what we know today as JOY.<br /><ul><li>Currently, there are 125 kids in contact that need support.</li><li>There are 70 kids, ages range from 4-22 years old that have ongoing intense mentoring, advocacy needs and are getting support.</li><li>Kids involved in the program are either referred by other JOY kids, referred by a probation office or a public defender. Most of the kids come because they heard about JOY from their friends. JOY has a 100% retention rate. </li></ul><table class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD-TZhHfjtL1l7-UH1v3DpgMlycgxAzQzbYJ4HZCcZRXHmkdWN9Tz2y189mbeTS4_VWPwp4jfUxNkLSaBG3ehyphenhyphenr1J7vIgSYonwhcMv33bU7QkqI-FOQqtfBL99BMS_hykEM0Xo3CZdFX0/s1600/Banquet+in+St+Paul.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD-TZhHfjtL1l7-UH1v3DpgMlycgxAzQzbYJ4HZCcZRXHmkdWN9Tz2y189mbeTS4_VWPwp4jfUxNkLSaBG3ehyphenhyphenr1J7vIgSYonwhcMv33bU7QkqI-FOQqtfBL99BMS_hykEM0Xo3CZdFX0/s320/Banquet+in+St+Paul.JPG" width="320" border="0" height="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">JOY Youth at a Sports Banquet</td></tr></tbody></table>Karen shared that many people don't understand what she sees every day. In fact, most would say that the focus and work should be on the younger kids (prevention) instead of the older kids (intervention). Karen disagrees. "I believe as long as a person is breathing, they're capable of change." She also said "These kids have no reason to stop what they're doing because it's helped them to survive." However, JOY creates opportunities that show another life and different choices; one of them being involvement sports. Many of the kids have no transportation to get to practice, or when the bus drops them off after an away game – there's nobody there to pick them up. That's where JOY comes in.<br /><br /><b>[A teenager once shared this with Karen]</b> "Can I tell you something. I don't know why, but every time I'm around you, I just feel safe. I hardly even know you, but I just want to be next to you and be alone so we can talk. Because my head keeps jumping from thing to thing all the time and with you, I feel like I can just sit and be calm." Karen shared that she hears this all the time from these teenagers.<br /><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq"><b>JOY is a critical program in Rochester to reduce gang involvement, activity and development. (<--Did you read that? Just checking. I think it's pretty important)</b></blockquote><b><br /></b><br />Many of the volunteers reach into their own pockets and financially support the youth themselves. They need haircuts, clothes, sports fees, membership fees to the Y (estimated at $1728 for 31-40 kids), gas money for the volunteers transporting kids to sports games, lunch, dinner,…..the list goes on.<br /><br /><br /><blockquote><b>Every young person counts, every child matters and every child can change.</b></blockquote><b><br /></b><br />I'm asking every person that's reading this blog, tweet, facebook to share this story and consider making JOY apart of some <span style="font-size:large;"><b><span style="background-color: white; color:#274e13;" >Christmas <span style="color:#990000;">magic</span></span></b></span>. Let's gather as a community and show these kids the <span style="background-color: white; font-size:large;color:#e06666;" >extraordinary.</span><br /><br />Here's how you can help: <b style="color: #e06666;">Be the 1</b> and support JOY, a very much needed program in Rochester.<br /><ul><li>There's an immediate financial need. Would you consider donating whatever you can towards JOY? (can you sacrifice one gift and instead donate the money towards JOY, what about gathering some money from fellow friends, coworkers and donating it? ) The funds will be used to pay for clothes, gas and food and other necessities.</li><li>Any businesses out there willing to make a hefty contribution before the end of the year?!?!? Maybe a car dealership willing to donate a brand new van?!??! How cool would THAT be?!??! Huh?</li><li>Volunteers are always needed. And not for the faint of heart. The commitment is great, but the rewards even greater. Interested in helping? Please contact <a href="mailto:KEdmonds216@aol.com">Karen Edmonds</a>.</li><li>Share this story with your Facebook, LinkedIN, twitter friends. Everybody.</li></ul><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:large;"><span style="background-color: white; color:#cc0000;" >All donations can be sent or dropped off at:</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:large;">JOY Programc/o Rochester Area Foundation</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:large;">400 S. Broadway Suite #300<br />Rochester, MN 55904</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:large;">or</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:large;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:large;">JOY</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:large;">PO Box 432<br />Rochester, MN 55903<br /></span></div><span style="font-size:large;"></span><br /><span style="Calibri","sans-serif"; line-height: 115%;font-family:";font-size:9pt;" ><span style="font-size:small;">**JOY is working on setting up a way to accept online donations, but until then - please send to either addresses.</span></span><br /><br />Look for a future blog post on the ongoing sustainable need to keep JOY operating at full speed (if you could only see Karen operate, you'd understand this visual!).<br /><blockquote style="background-color: white;">Karen, I know I have said this before, but I meant it. I've never seen someone so selfless and willing to sacrifice so much. Thank you for what you do. I am truly humbled and I hope our readers are just as inspired by you, as I am! In fact, I know they are.</blockquote>Lets make it rain, folks. Dig in your pockets. Dig into your hearts. Give what you can. In any way you can.<br /><br />May it be a <b style="color: #e06666;">JOY</b>ful Christmas this year for the JOY Progam! Please.<br /><br />I leave you with 2 letters from JOY Youth. The words speak for itself.<br /><table class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvokh38yfWuX7GjTZImywht1Bt2Ciq5V3jCiSvxvdd8YvILJCme2LKyCj2Zc389Us4Zrppm0qSn8SEE3flGQTX6YxsRaitIOrnr5EJSeWSoG6NGQLuKKZMqA8JeRtaKpLBRhFMS1MWByw/s1600/IMG_1281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvokh38yfWuX7GjTZImywht1Bt2Ciq5V3jCiSvxvdd8YvILJCme2LKyCj2Zc389Us4Zrppm0qSn8SEE3flGQTX6YxsRaitIOrnr5EJSeWSoG6NGQLuKKZMqA8JeRtaKpLBRhFMS1MWByw/s320/IMG_1281.JPG" width="240" border="0" height="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enlarge picture to read</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvBuWaBJD9e7Y47GFJ2isT6aPw0nzs9ETxjywHbqcGmsS3PdkA3-RTD0sxmLE5xjioSb9WryTXf3XDUOPBWEkhUh-1Nhe3pPcfI6PIk2NESSqHo7e0hgQzvhL60z2S8ubM5MaSiPpSRQo/s1600/IMG_1280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvBuWaBJD9e7Y47GFJ2isT6aPw0nzs9ETxjywHbqcGmsS3PdkA3-RTD0sxmLE5xjioSb9WryTXf3XDUOPBWEkhUh-1Nhe3pPcfI6PIk2NESSqHo7e0hgQzvhL60z2S8ubM5MaSiPpSRQo/s320/IMG_1280.JPG" width="240" border="0" height="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enlarge picture to read</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-21515597396823383412011-12-09T12:20:00.000-06:002011-12-09T12:20:35.980-06:00Quote of the Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwM4osg7hjrZgV6Dm3_netm44dmlxA5LaLREVPHCMvSDDpsX5LzntGeI3jbxImX29Xpl_HsX9ZJuy4GymndV2NvKEk-Z2MLZqiHjQ1wSufWKHnaZsFlatN67RFM_yLZ_6iORDs8ffNCrQ/s1600/keep-trying-cat-bottom-push-top-cubby-motivational-1290055895.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwM4osg7hjrZgV6Dm3_netm44dmlxA5LaLREVPHCMvSDDpsX5LzntGeI3jbxImX29Xpl_HsX9ZJuy4GymndV2NvKEk-Z2MLZqiHjQ1wSufWKHnaZsFlatN67RFM_yLZ_6iORDs8ffNCrQ/s400/keep-trying-cat-bottom-push-top-cubby-motivational-1290055895.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">"Most
of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people
who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all." <span style="font-size: small;"><i>Dale
Carnegie </i></span></span></span></h6>Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-78779292807237954982011-11-29T11:33:00.008-06:002011-11-29T11:53:01.602-06:00The Magic of Christmas: Volunteer<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4gf6paQeuuy7syDgG7U0C7sEVXxlyNxfB90pbhSLYDTB6IVtgFL_usCrrcoCcfNccz8yxKnUs-evrs1pl8PgETN5z_i2pPynnpuajb0kuKczCBLOSnxtbRuhrxE45h0QprhygCTm1lYkQ/s1600/magic-of-christmas.gif"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 224px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4gf6paQeuuy7syDgG7U0C7sEVXxlyNxfB90pbhSLYDTB6IVtgFL_usCrrcoCcfNccz8yxKnUs-evrs1pl8PgETN5z_i2pPynnpuajb0kuKczCBLOSnxtbRuhrxE45h0QprhygCTm1lYkQ/s320/magic-of-christmas.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5680474178670091410" border="0" /></a><span style="Arial","sans-serif"; font-family:";color:black;" >Christmas is my absolute favorite holiday. People walk around with a spirited skip in their step and hope in their hearts. The thought of Christmas just changes a persons mood in general! But, there are many in need, many alone, many who would love to feel that magic too.<br /><br />As</span><span style="Arial","sans-serif"; font-family:";color:black;" > the holidays approach, you may be looking for ideas to give back. Volunteering is a perfect way to do that. The gift of your time, could change someones life. Below are some opportunities around the area on how you can help.<br /><br />If you do volunteer, send us a note at <a href="mailto:uwbethe1@gmail.com">uwbethe1@gmail.com</a> and share your story! We'll feature it on this blog. Stories like this inspire others to do something too. :)<br /></span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:georgia, bookman old style, palatino linotype, book antiqua, palatino, trebuchet ms, helvetica, garamond, sans-serif, arial, verdana, avante garde, century gothic, comic sans ms, times, times new roman, serif;"><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHwkMG6lP6MhYmLFz3UAX-ybm2qXCEDM3D4GafqMEDysGoTGnXoWJTcmesY_IuGmOvOnDziW3HYFPwNAO1kye94U2VQ4ZNzK06h63Gch-TosolN4Gr6d0B9htg01VYClBWElvoCBtrhdQG/s1600/Christmas+Wand+si3923e.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 197px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHwkMG6lP6MhYmLFz3UAX-ybm2qXCEDM3D4GafqMEDysGoTGnXoWJTcmesY_IuGmOvOnDziW3HYFPwNAO1kye94U2VQ4ZNzK06h63Gch-TosolN4Gr6d0B9htg01VYClBWElvoCBtrhdQG/s320/Christmas+Wand+si3923e.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5680476088294939634" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="Arial","sans-serif"; font-family:";color:black;" ></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"; font-family:";color:black;" ></span><b><span style="Arial","sans-serif"; font-family:";color:black;" ><br /></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";color:black;" >Christmas Anonymous volunteers</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";color:black;" >Volunteers are needed to assist with setting up our store on Dec. 8-9, or escort parents through the store on Dec. 10. Call 285-3940 or visit our web site at <a href="http://www.christmasanonymous.org/" target="_blank">www.christmasanonymous.org</a> for more information or to volunteer with Christmas Anonymous.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";color:black;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";color:black;" >Toy and Joy Shop volunteer</span></b><b><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" ></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";color:black;" >Volunteers are paired one-on-one with needy families and literally take them "shopping" through all of the donated new toys, clothes, books, and games. The volunteer will assist the parents in finding age-appropriate items and the correct number of items for each child in their family. The dates for this event are Dec. 20-21. Call 288-3663 for more information or to volunteer with The Salvation Army. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";color:black;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";color:black;" >Holiday baking</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";color:black;" >If you are someone who likes to bake - we have a houseful of people who like to eat. During the month of December we have several events for the children including the magical visit from Santa Claus. We will even make arrangements to pick up your baked goods. Call 285-1938 for more information or to volunteer with Women's Shelter, Inc.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";color:black;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";color:black;" >Volunteer for Market Strasse</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";color:black;" >This is an opportunity to participate in an authentic European indoor/outdoor market on the Peace Plaza. You will be asked to switch between indoor and outdoor settings based on event needs. We will do our best to keep you warm. We’re looking for volunteers who are enthusiastic and reliable. Call 424-4744 for more information or to volunteer with the Rochester Downtown Alliance.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";color:black;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";color:black;" >Community gang initiative volunteer</span></b></p> <span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";color:black;" >United Way is seeking a self starter willing to work flexible hours weekly with minimal supervision to perform various tasks including internet based research, data entry, word processing, and some phone work related to this initiative. Call 287-2002 for more information or to volunteer with United Way of Olmsted County.</span>Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07370846208236087412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-59004014050877490812011-11-21T12:34:00.002-06:002011-11-21T12:39:42.317-06:00Give Thanks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTGSDE0IJMokc3eQk-96WfvmugIiFyiX9dfHKAIb0y_PNGKOwWFGZcAPU4povrYPKry4DZG82MwyJ94UNCYqLLdm-r6WP7WXb_W8Zj3b3VG5uARwyBXnICTsZYH2DlxQcDMk98hEgWdSc/s1600/give-thanks-wordartweb.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTGSDE0IJMokc3eQk-96WfvmugIiFyiX9dfHKAIb0y_PNGKOwWFGZcAPU4povrYPKry4DZG82MwyJ94UNCYqLLdm-r6WP7WXb_W8Zj3b3VG5uARwyBXnICTsZYH2DlxQcDMk98hEgWdSc/s400/give-thanks-wordartweb.png" width="400" /></a></div>
Appreciating what we have in a comedic perspective. Louis CK (comedian) went on Conan and talked about how we just don't appreciate what we have nowadays. While his view is a bit...rash and blunt :) I think it gets the point across.<br />
<br />
<i>"Everything is amazing right now and nobody's happy"</i>. <br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>"You're sitting in a chair, in the SKY."</i> lol.<br />
<br />
Sometimes we just need to sit back and start listing out the wonderful people, experiences, health, love, support, etc. we have in our lives...When we do this, even when times are tough, we truly realize how much we <b>do </b>have, even when it seems like things may not be going our way....or that we can't get internet access on a plane. ;-)<br />
<br />
<br />
Give of yourself selflessly this week to someone that might need help. Give thanks today to someone thats maybe helped you. Give thanks that you're alive!<br />
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Thanks for <b style="color: #e06666;">being the 1</b> <3<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/8r1CZTLk-Gk" width="420"></iframe>Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-58723705511187861742011-11-16T15:07:00.000-06:002011-11-16T15:07:26.290-06:00Quote of the Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjavDfn0kpVZAVWljGU2ccfHgSMb96mLOkvThYaOUMUgz1ae5VLjkOGuAbuWsYFpwgTmanBLRwK_j5pRKu49v1EthKYMQ8tGAtR9baIX6j_OQpmoSRP-OilbdbIJ7MqgOORRG4vEKXJ46o/s1600/Be+Inspired+Logo+Md+silver+w.+border.black+frame+DRAFT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjavDfn0kpVZAVWljGU2ccfHgSMb96mLOkvThYaOUMUgz1ae5VLjkOGuAbuWsYFpwgTmanBLRwK_j5pRKu49v1EthKYMQ8tGAtR9baIX6j_OQpmoSRP-OilbdbIJ7MqgOORRG4vEKXJ46o/s320/Be+Inspired+Logo+Md+silver+w.+border.black+frame+DRAFT.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span class="quote">We should all be thankful for<br />
those people who rekindle the inner spirit. </span></i></span><br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="quotesource">Albert Schweitzer </span></span></span></div>Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-64621725728447828852011-11-15T15:53:00.003-06:002011-11-15T16:00:19.606-06:00Move over for MovemberHave you heard of Movember? Are some of your men friends, boyfriends, husbands and siblings sporting a very unattractive yet inspiring mustache for the month of November? Don't know what all this facial hair is all about?<br />
<br />
Well, here you go. A couple of my buds are representin'!<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Qx098kSBNThAEICv6p_RdLHsXaLxv0a92xzC9XnAqjw5azA0BBSwjfKEtdR2mniX2AsF9vdCspkfbkUd-cZL0Xi7X8ecSNXdAcOKjhevahSqzoIo1RCo2iWpTjncICcgozWDRoN4t_c/s1600/sarah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Qx098kSBNThAEICv6p_RdLHsXaLxv0a92xzC9XnAqjw5azA0BBSwjfKEtdR2mniX2AsF9vdCspkfbkUd-cZL0Xi7X8ecSNXdAcOKjhevahSqzoIo1RCo2iWpTjncICcgozWDRoN4t_c/s1600/sarah.jpg" /></a></div>
<a href="http://us.movember.com/mospace/2405442/" target="_blank">Sarah Swistak</a> (<a href="http://wearecentralpa.com/centralpatv" target="_blank">Central PA Live</a>) is not only spreading the 'stache word, but also putting her money where her 'non-existent 'stache mouth' is and helping to raise awareness and funds to support this cause!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtpP9Qbr_lDrTT4Rz41VrsKzZuvFl810HYVhhOyYOnsEnEZ9o2Qt-C8vkEcL481Tr3AQqD4BxTltGCO3_QkGAS1VonInlYJrMkE68FA6Fr9qB0nmqWQ9HOJ716fEjZwTQ5zw4wmBRC5fA/s1600/phil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtpP9Qbr_lDrTT4Rz41VrsKzZuvFl810HYVhhOyYOnsEnEZ9o2Qt-C8vkEcL481Tr3AQqD4BxTltGCO3_QkGAS1VonInlYJrMkE68FA6Fr9qB0nmqWQ9HOJ716fEjZwTQ5zw4wmBRC5fA/s1600/phil.jpg" /></a></div>
And you'll find <a href="http://us.movember.com/mospace/1532202/" target="_blank">Phil Mackey</a>, (<a href="http://www.1500espn.com/shows/reusse" target="_blank">Ruesse and Mackey 1500ESPN show</a>) sporting an inconcievably dashing 'stache (well, at least he thinks it's dashing ;-).... haha). He has said "<i>Hey losers... I'm giving you a chance to be my tag-team partner ON AIR on a future CRRAM Session -- Everyone who donates at least $25 on my Movember page will be entered to come in studio and kick Reusse's ass with me</i>."<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="background-color: white;">
<a href="http://us.movember.com/about/" target="_blank">What is Movember</a>?<br />
<br />
During November each year, Movember is responsible for the sprouting of
moustaches on thousands of men’s faces, in the US and around the world.
With their Mo’s, these men raise vital funds and awareness for men’s
health, specifically prostate cancer and other cancers that affect men.</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="background-color: white;">The funds raised in the US support prostate cancer and other cancers
that affect men. The funds raised are directed to programs run directly
by Movember and our men’s health partners, the Prostate Cancer
Foundation and LIVE</span><b style="background-color: white;">STRONG</b><span style="background-color: white;">, the Lance Armstrong
Foundation. Together, the three channels work together to ensure that
Movember funds are supporting a broad range of innovative, world-class
programs in line with our </span><a href="http://us.movember.com/about/vision-goals/" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank">strategic goals</a><span style="background-color: white;"> in the areas of awareness and education, survivorship and research.</span> </blockquote>
Be inspired. <b style="color: #e06666;">Be the 1</b>. Share, help and donate if you can. Because we really do need the men we love in this world <3Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-50818437968942535532011-11-04T16:49:00.000-05:002011-11-04T16:49:09.282-05:00Volunteer Opportunity - ARTINI<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1xPDl24ySq9av8M4c8BTJ2p7QI0czsSz3CHmTAnjGdJc4m62sHKo9dOENX5fVFJTRWiyDhJUQjv0cx00z6K0agkbIQI-KKfHqG6r4jA0Onck9kT59XCQ7fv-V8JdHjzcw_9JD0h3KwYT2/s1600/artini+graphic.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671257896377623234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1xPDl24ySq9av8M4c8BTJ2p7QI0czsSz3CHmTAnjGdJc4m62sHKo9dOENX5fVFJTRWiyDhJUQjv0cx00z6K0agkbIQI-KKfHqG6r4jA0Onck9kT59XCQ7fv-V8JdHjzcw_9JD0h3KwYT2/s200/artini+graphic.png" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 130px; margin: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
This is something different. A volunteer opportunity that adds an element of mingling and may speak to the social butterfly! Think this is super cool? Ask to be added to the volunteer list and you'll be recruited for current or future events.(They may even need some volunteers for tomorrow still)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.rochesterartcenter.org/">http://www.rochesterartcenter.org/events/benefits.html</a><br />
<br />
<b>Naura Anderson</b> (Public Programs & Marketing Director at the Rochester Art Center) took some time at one of the martini previews to talk to me about the ARTINI event, volunteer opportunities and how this event helps keep a meaningful asset to our community afloat.<br />
<br />
Come on out to ARTINI and mingle with martinis, starts at 6pm. See you there!<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/0X4abvf3BRo" width="420"></iframe><br />
<br />
P.S. It goes without saying - Drink Responsibly - Snag a designated driver :)Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-8059369829314635482011-10-25T11:20:00.000-05:002011-10-25T11:20:41.976-05:00Quote of the Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTPLdfaqiqdjY6W_lENwjHfm4VqeWWs7OkBGcPboiD2oP6tqj5jX6NZtLHNt7mgVkBR9-mOgEQu6KnI9B2XdJmYjkIle1KQew7zI1rdCSL_D1Bfrp33ngPvUtKCRC9DIqpuJ_uQ6lrstc/s1600/Do-You-Believe-in-Miracles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTPLdfaqiqdjY6W_lENwjHfm4VqeWWs7OkBGcPboiD2oP6tqj5jX6NZtLHNt7mgVkBR9-mOgEQu6KnI9B2XdJmYjkIle1KQew7zI1rdCSL_D1Bfrp33ngPvUtKCRC9DIqpuJ_uQ6lrstc/s320/Do-You-Believe-in-Miracles.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">“There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a
miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.” – Albert
Einstein</span>Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-17458242795590074332011-10-18T14:31:00.009-05:002011-10-18T16:02:58.413-05:00What I said at the Mayo Clinic United Way Recharge Event (For those that missed it)<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNlrrVCI1KqsxvdVwQi4_Z2u1mM2EHqBZc8-I5YIpiTJt8Ghfbcpc2Stn_iNTQ1KGUES72Agk15Z_ZvKfb1AEe97AA2WOFgPFatZjJYrLY6zBKiJ5AO6fConCz1YEHSW3rNfXouo7HW6g/s1600/tealkatrina.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNlrrVCI1KqsxvdVwQi4_Z2u1mM2EHqBZc8-I5YIpiTJt8Ghfbcpc2Stn_iNTQ1KGUES72Agk15Z_ZvKfb1AEe97AA2WOFgPFatZjJYrLY6zBKiJ5AO6fConCz1YEHSW3rNfXouo7HW6g/s320/tealkatrina.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Katrina and I at the Mayo Clinic Advocate<br />
Recharge Event</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Hello. My name is Danielle Teal. I’m a Mayo Clinic employee, I do
stand up comedy, I’m a mom of a 5 year old and I’m a United Way
Volunteer and editor of the “Be the 1” blog.<br />
<br />
Truth be told, I know and have the secret to happiness. Let me explain.<br />
<br />
Several years ago, on April 2 (yes, I remember the exact date) I
was leaving work and as I’m sure a lot of you may do this too, I
noticed I was driving on fumes. I always tended to wait till the last
moment or as close to my next paycheck as I possibly could before I
filled up with gas again. I pulled into the gas station, filled up my
gas tank, walked into the station, went right up to the counter, said
pump #10 and smiled.<br />
<br />
The cashier behind the counter looked at me with a spark in his eye
and said “It’s paid for.” Just slightly confused, I said “Ah. You must
have the wrong pump” I pointed at my car and said “It’s the car over
there, pump # 10. I haven’t paid yet” The cashier smile got bigger and
he said “Someone paid for it. It’s all taken care of”. I looked at him
in shock and said “That was $37.56. Someone paid for that?” (grinning
from ear to ear) The cashier said “Yep.” <br />
I looked at him in shock and said bluntly “All of it?”<br />
<br />
He laughed and said “Yep. All of it”<br />
<br />
I then began to ask who was it, where is this person, is he super hot, etc. etc. I
quick skimmed with my eyes all over the store and outside parking lot to
see if I could figure out who this generous kind soul was. As I was
doing this, I quickly stopped asking questions because I realized in
that moment that this person, didn’t want me to know. They did this
random act of kindness as a gesture pure and wholesome.<br />
<br />
I walked out of that station with a new bill on life and different
perspective. I swore to myself that I would not only pay that kind act
forward, but honor that person by living my life in a way that could
help others.<br />
<br />
<b>Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does. – William James</b><br />
<b><br /></b><br />
I just wasn’t sure on how I would do it. When I would do it and what I would do.<br />
~~~~~~~~<br />
<br />
<b>In October of 2008</b>, I stood on stage for the first
time in years, not to sing or dance …in fact, I use to have a severe
case of stage fright. I was willingly ready to put myself out there in
the most vulnerable way possible and do stand up comedy…. My friends
always told me I was funny and I believed them. :-p Wonder if they still
feel the same way…..? haha.<br />
<br />
What started out as just a “bucket list” item turned love affair of
writing jokes and deploying them on stage, turned into something much
bigger.<br />
<br />
It all connects. Just wait.<br />
<br />
Fast forward, Thursday, September 23, 2010. 32+ counties in
Minnesota received threatening amounts of rainfull. Many were displaced
and lost their homes, many in Olmsted County. I knew this was a moment
where I couldn’t sit back. I recruited friends of mine, we went to
Zumbro Falls and personally helped mucked out houses. The woman we
helped, lost her home and I was going to go home to my place that was
intact and she lost her home.<br />
<br />
It was then that I remembered what that kind person who simply bought my gas, did for me and the impact it made on my life.<br />
<br />
I walked away from that experience telling myself that I had to do
more. And I would. And others would too. Through United Way, I continued
to recruit friends and coworkers through mass texting, email and social
media, sending them through the Volunteer process to go help muck
houses. It didn’t stop there. United Way and my now vast network of
entertainers, comedians, bands, singers, media, many, many volunteers
and I pulled off an event of epic proportions to raise over $9000 for
those affected by the flood.<br />
<br />
It didn’t stop there either. :)<br />
<br />
This story isn’t about me. It’s about the act of one kind stranger,
who did something for someone else and that small act was an
extraordinary act to that person and that person turned that act into
another kind act.<br />
<br />
<b>It’s called the Dragonfly effect. Small acts create big change. Social Change. </b><br />
<b><br /></b><br />
That’s where the Be the 1 blog comes in. Dave Beal, VP of
Communications and Advocacy through United Way of Olmsted County and I
were sitting for a routine lunch to catch up and brainstorm about ways I
can help, as well as inspire ways for others to help. I shared with
Dave that several of my friends would tell me that they would love to
join me on my volunteer endeavors and that I should write a blog about
my volunteering. Right then and there, a blog was born. But it wasn’t
going to just be about myself and what I was doing. Nope. It was going
to be about you, and you, and you, and you.<br />
<br />
Be the 1. What does that mean? It's simple. Be the 1 = to volunteer.
Be the 1 = to lift a hand. Be the 1 = to make a difference. Be the 1 =
to inspire.<br />
<br />
A good friend of mine shared this in a Good Deed Story he submitted for the blog<br />
<br />
<b><i>Every day, when you get out of bed, you have three options: </i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b><br />
<b><i>Do nothing. Be inspired. Inspire.</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b><br />
Every week, on the Be the 1 blog, we post different stuff. It could be Quote of the Week, a
good deed story that’s submitted by a reader or volunteer, volunteer
opportunities, people who make a difference, the blog continues to
evolve and making momentum. If you have a story or experience you’d like
to share, you can go to the blog and submit it through the email listed
there. Please feel free to advocate and share the blog on your
facebook, twitter, google+, etc. etc. etc<br />
<br />
Mayo Clinic United Way Advocates and Volunteers, today you are my
inspiration. I stand before you in awe and gratitude for your work and
work to come. I encourage you to read the blog weekly to see how your
simple yet extraordinary acts impact the lives of other people.<br />
<br />
A child goes to school wearing a backpack proudly , a young teenager
is being mentored by a supportive adult instead of being distracted by
the fake camaraderie of a gang, a single mother is able to feed her
child a healthy wholesome meal, an elderly adult is able to be
self-sufficient much longer with the support of an advocate, an entire
family is able to stay warm this winter wearing coats donated.<br />
<br />
The pledges raised here are not just monetary. They’re small acts that create big change.<br />
<br />
You are that change.<br />
<br />
Thanks for Being the 1, Mayo Clinic.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqzoYfUaAHvWo4C-c98upOPblBx-hH3HwoQw94JUREXnPfQ2PbKPg70NXPxMEfb8CUtt8e5Kw3P0bKJ-c-g91jo2hzkvemaloL58vY_usFsvuI7agr0u436VBiLTAR1HFdZ6dxJk4AQ0E/s1600/IMG_0128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqzoYfUaAHvWo4C-c98upOPblBx-hH3HwoQw94JUREXnPfQ2PbKPg70NXPxMEfb8CUtt8e5Kw3P0bKJ-c-g91jo2hzkvemaloL58vY_usFsvuI7agr0u436VBiLTAR1HFdZ6dxJk4AQ0E/s320/IMG_0128.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeiedbjptZbRRxMgHSmWku-c5c8mDNdU7FJmJ52hs80d6mQbmt3CLRy3M-Ltk2XepkIB_P4RmkwxE9RfycTTQvKM0bkWm_BbkUt2w1WkNTe_0zQxKnCIUTpffFW3wX-qXUpXRG66NB_Uc/s1600/IMG_0137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeiedbjptZbRRxMgHSmWku-c5c8mDNdU7FJmJ52hs80d6mQbmt3CLRy3M-Ltk2XepkIB_P4RmkwxE9RfycTTQvKM0bkWm_BbkUt2w1WkNTe_0zQxKnCIUTpffFW3wX-qXUpXRG66NB_Uc/s320/IMG_0137.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Oh. And the secret to happiness?<br />
Becoming selfless. Because when you help others, you ultimately help yourself - and THAT, my friends is the ulitmate happiness.<br />
:)<br />
<br />
[<i>Editor note: Found an old email I had sent out about the person that paid for my gas and clarified the pump # and date. Oops! I was close!</i>]Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-54669667321627297652011-10-18T11:00:00.015-05:002011-10-18T12:32:06.820-05:00Mayo Clinic IS the 1.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjknNGEiZ-K566Y7kYfJVDT97rnpyvq86vqmmBUbpE7AqMKACgMbjgR0UtO0o8jNftkcNTqzt4k1Gub8jfMKrCSS1-lLwB0xQHQwlBV6FqkoBHCpc1Xr8w4PeGhnEsy5tmGYHwh4cyARdo/s1600/logo-mc.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjknNGEiZ-K566Y7kYfJVDT97rnpyvq86vqmmBUbpE7AqMKACgMbjgR0UtO0o8jNftkcNTqzt4k1Gub8jfMKrCSS1-lLwB0xQHQwlBV6FqkoBHCpc1Xr8w4PeGhnEsy5tmGYHwh4cyARdo/s1600/logo-mc.gif" /></a></div>Today I will be speaking at the United Way Advocate Recharge Event for Mayo Clinic Employee Advocates about the "<b><span style="color: #e06666;">Be the 1</span></b>" blog and volunteering. <br />
<br />
The Mayo Clinic United Way theme this year is:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Making a Difference...One Pledge at a Time </span></b></div><br />
And make a difference they will. With 200+ employee advocates, thousands upon thousands of employees pledging - those kind acts make big change. Every pledge, advocacy, and volunteering act counts.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYFwuiCwlQfCD2aazvDDAFDS7OmN_jQo3WycOsvnD6RZ5hCk6phjtSz5UsFoebK4wTkDz97Vi9zxQodhIoPr2szJkKi9JjiwGBcDt9Pwgdjug7dH5eW0_tV9X999WkATWjnQXCP-jIc4o/s1600/make-a-difference1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYFwuiCwlQfCD2aazvDDAFDS7OmN_jQo3WycOsvnD6RZ5hCk6phjtSz5UsFoebK4wTkDz97Vi9zxQodhIoPr2szJkKi9JjiwGBcDt9Pwgdjug7dH5eW0_tV9X999WkATWjnQXCP-jIc4o/s320/make-a-difference1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Thanks for <span style="color: #e06666;">Being the 1</span>, Mayo Clinic.</span></b></div><br />
Continue to read this blog to find out how United Way advocates at Mayo Clinic are making a difference.<br />
<br />
Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-76674846640021140312011-10-17T11:15:00.000-05:002011-10-17T11:15:49.392-05:00Quote of the Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRW2FaTu5SpKJyvd0mDq5mjs2toNxQCfo9cNUgNLKRLnuqwnfsNsTfKFzAXCrpP0xBYYGX0v-32KZ8sQPJN5NAsmC647sX0ZO6f9JzgGq_ehglgqtE8UzX0mjbS8cke8figKJO406seRA/s1600/awesome-heart-pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRW2FaTu5SpKJyvd0mDq5mjs2toNxQCfo9cNUgNLKRLnuqwnfsNsTfKFzAXCrpP0xBYYGX0v-32KZ8sQPJN5NAsmC647sX0ZO6f9JzgGq_ehglgqtE8UzX0mjbS8cke8figKJO406seRA/s320/awesome-heart-pic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="body">"The idea is to write it so that people hear it and it slides through the brain and goes straight to the heart.</span>"</span></i><br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span class="bodybold">
Maya Angelou
</span></div>
<br />
<div style="background-color: transparent; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
<br /></div>Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-22888200263524977182011-10-14T10:57:00.008-05:002011-10-14T11:05:05.999-05:00Good Deed Story - Jump Start Someones Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYOJEx77Q_izslKmAq9qD1-kiaXYeG29zMj7Vu5DPvaNq54AIpA8-tGS6YF-vPuhyphenhyphen37hmB30HPCAdC-2H1vDh_fkbpbRwKZVVDZXcwpSu7QsqUMkX4kDf-ZanaZmYsgaChEYPSrWXgyP0/s1600/gooddeed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYOJEx77Q_izslKmAq9qD1-kiaXYeG29zMj7Vu5DPvaNq54AIpA8-tGS6YF-vPuhyphenhyphen37hmB30HPCAdC-2H1vDh_fkbpbRwKZVVDZXcwpSu7QsqUMkX4kDf-ZanaZmYsgaChEYPSrWXgyP0/s320/gooddeed.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
In our every day hustle and bustle of rushing, we may often miss opportunities to help someone. This reader took a moment to BE the 1. Thank you for your story, Jan. <3<br />
<br />
<blockquote>
<br />
<i>Rushing home from Papa Murphy’s with a pie to be
baked, noticed as I backed out of the parking stall, the car parked
next to me had a friendly looking pooch who seemed to have a frown! A
few seconds later, the car’s owner appeared, phone and pizza in hand,
frowning as well ‘cuz his car would not start. Pulled back into the
parking spot and offered Mr. Pooch some water in a cup and jumper cables
and a car start for the driver.</i>
<br />
<i>A smile brightened my face as I watched them drive off in the sunset.</i>
</blockquote>
A simple act of helping someone start their car could be just enough to make someones day mucho better! :)<br />
<br />
Slow down. Take a moment. Look around. What can you do to help? Who can you surprise and make someones day much more special?<br />
<br />
<div style="color: #274e13; font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">
<i><b>Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does. ~William James</b></i></div>Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-61688060376490816942011-10-12T17:55:00.000-05:002011-10-12T17:55:51.373-05:00United Way; Community Outerwear - How you can help "BE the 1"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJxxW_Y3PR_ezoYFmj-jcpuPxV8T4ZPk-E6a8mpUD3qYbVI7EWwuMM8JVvrWx9Y_fmcToPANDcvjjT5pPs1agy-0gTdHFK_Yyoj9xl0616EPd8V2hBh-0qNMjnlqXfXzSAvUcTV84e8FE/s1600/wowgive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJxxW_Y3PR_ezoYFmj-jcpuPxV8T4ZPk-E6a8mpUD3qYbVI7EWwuMM8JVvrWx9Y_fmcToPANDcvjjT5pPs1agy-0gTdHFK_Yyoj9xl0616EPd8V2hBh-0qNMjnlqXfXzSAvUcTV84e8FE/s320/wowgive.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
United Way of Olmsted County is still very much in need of volunteers for the Community Outerwear drive. There are two ways you can help:<br />
<br />
<br />
1. Donate<br />
<blockquote>
<h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">3,283
individuals have requested coats, 1,602 of those are children and youth
(2-17 years of age). To-date we have received 550 infant, toddler and
youth coats. You are needed! Clean out your closets and donate your
gently used and clean coats that no longer fit or winter outerwear items
that are in good condition but no longer needed. Bring your donations
to any of the Dison's Cleaners & Laun<span class="text_exposed_show">derers
locations or United Way of Olmsted County (903 West Center Street,
Suite 100, Rochester) on or before Tuesday, October 18th. If you don't
have a new or gently coat - we accept cash, credit card or check gifts
to purchase locally! Thanks for supporting United Way and your
community! Visit <a href="http://www.uwolmsted.org/" rel="nofollow nofollow" target="_blank">www.uwolmsted.org</a> to volunteer or learn more! Thanks for living united! </span></span></span></h6>
</blockquote>
<br />
2. Volunteer. Below are the volunteer needs. Please consider taking some time out of your schedule and volunteer for an hour. I'm looking at a night to go help. Let me know if you're interested in joining me.<br />
<br />
~ Teal<br />
<br />
<table border="1" class="table02">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>project title</b></td>
<td><b>needed</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Final Set-up for Winter Outer Wear</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sorter</td>
<td>26</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Distribution Day: Registration</td>
<td>12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Distribution Day: Phone Volunteer</td>
<td>9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Distribution Day: Welcome</td>
<td>14</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Interpreter-Somali</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Drop Off/Sorter</td>
<td>37</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Distribution Day: Escort</td>
<td>127</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Interpreter - Arabic</td>
<td>8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Clean up, tear down, and box up</td>
<td>13</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Interpreter-Spanish</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://volunteer.truist.com/olmsted/user/events/one.tcl?event_id=10479294633" target="_blank">https://volunteer.truist.com/olmsted/user/events/one.tcl?event_id=10479294633</a></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-67511411600948317722011-10-12T13:18:00.001-05:002011-10-12T13:20:56.079-05:00Quote of the Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAS-mjeDhveL0Gq__978lH3gg04IrXEJsuv9-JAaojwDGjp6djyFdVJHqnj8He81L9VD8Ckw5BNX83lipoPUfgdLlvwE1aXS_1LOutJgomQdbQA1G0tlOWam3Q2yJ3wOToVszzmxo41k4/s1600/helpinghands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAS-mjeDhveL0Gq__978lH3gg04IrXEJsuv9-JAaojwDGjp6djyFdVJHqnj8He81L9VD8Ckw5BNX83lipoPUfgdLlvwE1aXS_1LOutJgomQdbQA1G0tlOWam3Q2yJ3wOToVszzmxo41k4/s320/helpinghands.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">“Some people dream of great accomplishments, while others stay awake and do them”<em> via Danielle Luedtke</em></span>Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-33818892647253296722011-09-30T11:07:00.006-05:002011-09-30T15:13:33.975-05:00Good Deed Story: "No, really I AM THE 1"[<i>Editor note: A story submitted by a friend of mine in Rochester, Minnesota - powerful story ~ You wont be able to stop reading it. BJP, thanks for <b style="color: #e06666;">being the 1</b>. ~ Danielle Teal</i>]<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEeudBQkUJmsU6nyOU2-dvcpLJSUN6obw84Sj4DZRkOqkbsetktcK2vlnIzfvhK8yBSKiNSctwCSHXITgUOTY-i29SWvmtlanNj4cvBSo-AhMV8F1GhLRBlfDP1-wt_-ZWhoXpTkVu_bE/s1600/gooddeed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEeudBQkUJmsU6nyOU2-dvcpLJSUN6obw84Sj4DZRkOqkbsetktcK2vlnIzfvhK8yBSKiNSctwCSHXITgUOTY-i29SWvmtlanNj4cvBSo-AhMV8F1GhLRBlfDP1-wt_-ZWhoXpTkVu_bE/s320/gooddeed.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Before I dive into my pay-it-forward moment, I feel the urge
to tell you a little about myself in the hopes that it will inspire a few of
you average Joes out there.<br />
<br />
First off, my name is ... nah, I can’t tell you that. It’s irrelevant ;-)<br />
<br />
In a nutshell, I’m your average dude. I fully embrace my dorky side, while
behind closed doors. I like to come off uber cool in public; I usually fail
miserably.<br />
<br />
If you can’t already tell, I joke a great deal. To be honest, I’m rarely
serious. If I’m talking, chances are I’m being sarcastic. Terrible, right?!<br />
<br />
Despite any painted-on facade, at the root of it all is an enormous heart. I
truly believe that (not just trying to inflate my ego). I will do anything for
my friends. Actually, I usually do anything for anybody. <br />
<br />
If someone is my friend, I never ask them to pay me back. Ever. What’s mine is
theirs. And if they don’t pay me back, oh well. <br />
<br />
I care too much sometimes. I worry about other people’s comfort more than my
own. I hold the door for everyone, even if it means waiting an extra few
seconds. I’d rather inconvenience myself before inconveniencing anyone else.<br />
<br />
So I’ve got this huge heart, but I also have a problem. I’m super lazy. I don’t
volunteer like I should. Ever really (gosh, I did all the time when I was in
college and high school). I don’t help strangers as often I should. I’ve got a
gift for making people laugh, and I should put that to use, in hospitals or
nursing homes or wherever.<br />
<br />
I have no other excuse — LAZINESS! Terrible, I’m aware. But it’s the truth.
I’ll be more inspired someday, I promise.<br />
<br />
So, I hope that sets a bit of a stage for you.<br />
<br />
What I did a week ago last Monday was out of character in one sense, and
completely in character in another.<br />
<br />
But I will say this — I never would have done it if I hadn't come into contact
with the dork who’s associated with this blog. Without even knowing it, she
inspired me. She’s made me a better person already ... and that’s what this is
all about.<br />
<br />
So, a week ago Monday, some friends (and their kids) and I went out to Whistle
Binkies to celebrate a new chapter in my life.<br />
<br />
It was Mystery Beer night, ya’ll!!! (LEGGO!)<br />
<br />
(I’m such a loser — the single guy hanging out with his “couple” friends and
their kids ... but I love kids, and you know, mystery beers.)<br />
<br />
At about 9 p.m., an elderly couple walked in and sat at a corner table. My
first thought was, “Dude, why are these old people out at like 9 p.m.??? My
aunt and uncle go to bed at like 8.”<br />
<br />
<span id="goog_1315146534"></span><span id="goog_1315146535"></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5iKKs6-fQgv-JR53fa8q4MdsCxrPTB3PwKI0qvuvZWB12v9tSLgYBAijw93A4dppzjRkE0WIA5GsHXaI4fUgUwNZHSqhnBcI-Snu9BowO0SKvL08b8CYO4HTUkCg3VF5wqjkLTIsWR8Q/s1600/old-couple2.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5iKKs6-fQgv-JR53fa8q4MdsCxrPTB3PwKI0qvuvZWB12v9tSLgYBAijw93A4dppzjRkE0WIA5GsHXaI4fUgUwNZHSqhnBcI-Snu9BowO0SKvL08b8CYO4HTUkCg3VF5wqjkLTIsWR8Q/s320/old-couple2.jpg" width="320" /></a>I’m a dedicated people watcher, so I noticed them right away. The old guy was
the cutest thing you’ve ever seen. Adorable suspenders. You could tell he got
dressed up for their night out. <br />
<br />
One thing was obvious — they were in love. And if I’m even half that in love at
their age, I’m winning ...<br />
<br />
So the adorable couple ordered beers and eventually their food came. (I’m
assuming at this point little children are climbing all over me, but I’m still
watching the old couple out of the corner of my eye.)<br />
<br />
When our check came, it hit me.<br />
<br />
Pay it forward.<br />
<br />
Seriously, the cutest old couple ever ... so why not, right? I mean, the guy
had me as soon as I saw his suspenders.<br />
<br />
So when our waiter came to collect my check, I pulled him aside. I said, “Hey,
I’d like to pay for that couple’s meal. But you CAN’T tell them who did it. Is
that cool?”<br />
<br />
The waiter was shocked at first, but he agreed. <br />
<br />
So I paid for my meal and the couple’s meal. <br />
<br />
I did it all quietly, so most of my table (minus one joker) didn’t hear what
was going on. They all found out later when said joker informed them, but I’ll
get back to that in a bit.<br />
<br />
When the waiter brought the receipts back for me to sign, it was a done deal. <br />
<br />
I was lucky in that I was able to listen to their reaction when the waiter
informed them their bill was taken care of.<br />
<br />
The woman’s hands went over her mouth. They resisted. And they begged the
waiter to tell them who had done it. But my man stood strong.<br />
<br />
I was smiling inside ... and that smile grew when I heard the woman trying to
guess who had done it. Her first thought — some of their friends from back home
in North Dakota.<br />
<br />
Why did that make me smile more? Because, seriously, how good are these people
to their friends? I mean, I’m great to my friends, but if someone paid for my
meal, I would never guess friends from home had done it!! Just sayin’ ...<br />
<br />
Silly? Maybe. But it just drove home the point in my mind.<br />
<br />
So, why did I do this? To make myself feel better? Well, I hope not. Did it
make me glow? Yes, but I like to think of that as a byproduct of this.<br />
<br />
In all the randomness of life, many things hit me that night. The first was ...
someone has inspired me, so let’s see if I can inspire someone else.<br />
<br />
And I know I did that night. More than one person, actually.<br />
<br />
First up, I hope it inspired the couple. I know it made them smile, so that’s a
win right there.<br />
<br />
I also know it inspired the waiter. Because when I was walking out the door, he
grabbed me and told me that was the coolest thing he’d ever seen (I hope that
really wasn’t the COOLEST thing, because that would be kind of sad).<br />
<br />
And it also inspired one of the couples at my table. They learned what was
going on, and their mouths dropped open. I’m going to save the story about how
it inspired them for a future post, because I’m getting long-winded here.<br />
<br />
This was something simple, and yet it went so far. It didn’t cost me much. And
yeah, I’m super broke right now, but I’d do it again every day of the week and
twice on Sunday (blatant ‘A Few Good Men’ ripoff).<br />
<br />
Sometimes we make life seem so complicated. BUT you can change the world, with
each act of kindness.<br />
<br />
I really believe it’s that simple. Your kindness WILL lead to more kindness.
You might not see it today or tomorrow. But someday, the dominoes will fall,
and you’ll be able to smile, knowing you made a difference.<br />
<br />
<blockquote style="background-color: #f4cccc;">
Every day, when you get out of bed, you have three options:<b> Do nothing. Be
inspired. Inspire.</b></blockquote>
<br />
Choose wisely. Many days, I don’t ... that whole lazy thing kicks my rear end
sometimes.<br />
<br />
Just remember, this world owes you nothing. But I truly believe you deserve the
love you give the world. So give a lot!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbQ9m1C3lHNEtpS8pZPVHJl3uZhyphenhyphenTBnf0BAwaeowmCZWgv6Cv_nOTQXeDefeE359a1hlGZyFW-g6TJlQpUxjtwsR6qYt8ASIyiRd8gbVxZCrERsp8BaPdMtT9XOFXXkghBCjWZhBZtsLc/s1600/bradley-cooper_1280x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbQ9m1C3lHNEtpS8pZPVHJl3uZhyphenhyphenTBnf0BAwaeowmCZWgv6Cv_nOTQXeDefeE359a1hlGZyFW-g6TJlQpUxjtwsR6qYt8ASIyiRd8gbVxZCrERsp8BaPdMtT9XOFXXkghBCjWZhBZtsLc/s320/bradley-cooper_1280x1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">BJP wanted me to put a pic of Bradley Cooper instead <br />
of a pic of himself. haha. ~ Danielle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
— BJP<br />
<br />
PS - I like to live by this motto, for better or worse ... let kindness be the
torch that guides you through the darkest times of your life.</div>Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-30303668419095547032011-09-27T17:59:00.002-05:002011-09-27T18:00:25.741-05:00Want to be a guest writer?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8w7SzeTLQkcTQDaK7gAUTpphAeWleJ2EPa-mo8V0xhyRqJZZa7vb6wXZ2fn44G4-7O4xFIvGGJ9tSaFsu_ai_-WKExETpl7bZ-9zZ1LBERBTM46haAyh2HET_XsoQPgFc9_0rWzxltUc/s1600/typewriter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8w7SzeTLQkcTQDaK7gAUTpphAeWleJ2EPa-mo8V0xhyRqJZZa7vb6wXZ2fn44G4-7O4xFIvGGJ9tSaFsu_ai_-WKExETpl7bZ-9zZ1LBERBTM46haAyh2HET_XsoQPgFc9_0rWzxltUc/s320/typewriter.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Want to be a guest writer for the <b><span style="color: #e06666;">Be the 1</span></b> blog?<br />
<br />
Want to take on one really cool super kind assignment and write about it?<br />
<br />
Ideas:<br />
- volunteer and write about your experience<br />
- witness a kind act and how it impacted the recipient<br />
- carry out a good deed and write about it - if you witnessed the recipients reaction, share<br />
- list out ideas for good deeds - ask others for ideas too!<br />
<br />
Email <a href="mailto:uwbethe1@gmail.com">uwbethe1@gmail.com</a> if you're interested! <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSiRUPsKNyMWTatXORqFC9orGwFcMEKcLnaN-0R6ydyjY0NSAWwvYALbJc7rxeCt8dJZJ767aKZTUhygLGB6vzaqwQKQAyTpPSE_5hNHZM3hacrkAXCbQRrBYB6AwFJX0uaExLKLnOzP4/s1600/teal.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSiRUPsKNyMWTatXORqFC9orGwFcMEKcLnaN-0R6ydyjY0NSAWwvYALbJc7rxeCt8dJZJ767aKZTUhygLGB6vzaqwQKQAyTpPSE_5hNHZM3hacrkAXCbQRrBYB6AwFJX0uaExLKLnOzP4/s200/teal.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Danielle Teal, 'Be the 1' Blog Editor</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-33118114291957692952011-09-27T17:47:00.000-05:002011-09-27T17:47:13.530-05:00Let me buy you a coffee, just because… [guest writer - Alison Rentschler]<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt05s-ucT3yDixyz42AkJGwVh3b03Gtto667k7Im3RYxg6NvsIvH3FwKbYgkIL-TcTKWUtmTZlt_cIzj01JdPYFkzFTxPxiRMqpDP1obTHolNn4FJeZ9gqjbaozWdxXEEBBIHHKPsMLcA/s1600/Coffee+Mug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt05s-ucT3yDixyz42AkJGwVh3b03Gtto667k7Im3RYxg6NvsIvH3FwKbYgkIL-TcTKWUtmTZlt_cIzj01JdPYFkzFTxPxiRMqpDP1obTHolNn4FJeZ9gqjbaozWdxXEEBBIHHKPsMLcA/s200/Coffee+Mug.jpg" width="148" /></a></div>
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Once, while working as a barista at a coffee shop in Rochester,
a man came in the shop and ordered a coffee from my coworker. He then paid for
his coffee. But after that, he gave my coworker a $5 bill. He said to use it to
pay for the next person’s drink, whatever they ordered, and to keep any change
as a tip. The man asked my coworker not to tell the person who had given the
money, and he went and sat down at a nearby table. My coworker, surprised,
agreed to pay for the next person’s drink with the money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilB7tuReK0AHldi2srt6l3OtK2fvlf2F2rUNY6ZtEusJ64zSnkHVFvWESud1zyx-2x6ofYm2auZ0sALdI383gKurxDs3t-plZpiB0Oe5ttfowy0JxvjTpVZrGmrsEterzVpKP8Y32yN-0/s1600/Alison+Pro+Pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilB7tuReK0AHldi2srt6l3OtK2fvlf2F2rUNY6ZtEusJ64zSnkHVFvWESud1zyx-2x6ofYm2auZ0sALdI383gKurxDs3t-plZpiB0Oe5ttfowy0JxvjTpVZrGmrsEterzVpKP8Y32yN-0/s200/Alison+Pro+Pic.jpg" width="157" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>~ <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Alison Rentschler
is <br />a writer living in <br />Rochester, Minn.</span></i></td></tr>
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A few minutes later a woman came in the shop and ordered an
espresso drink. My coworker explained that someone had given money to pay for
her coffee. She looked very surprised and happy and accepted the free drink.
What a great surprise to get a free espresso drink! She left the store with a
big smile on her face! </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sometimes a random act of kindness, or a good deed, can make
a huge difference in someone’s life, or it may just make them smile and make
their day better. <b style="color: #e06666;">Be the 1</b>! </div>
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<br /></div>
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<![endif]--> </div>Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-9413711177847455772011-09-27T17:41:00.000-05:002011-09-27T17:41:55.979-05:00Quote of the Week<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIOnbUogwinBHQl5k-bQVJLybbzPbpJPtMne6EqnLt-MEtKA03JDKuJ_GIpmLOtPpRumIOvUFfMS-KqbwTbsII9zM_xKce1kdwLt6I_S9Cj5Ri3lj0AtHP1QRmhuWbMvD4F6Lbo5Hvag4/s1600/amelia-earhart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIOnbUogwinBHQl5k-bQVJLybbzPbpJPtMne6EqnLt-MEtKA03JDKuJ_GIpmLOtPpRumIOvUFfMS-KqbwTbsII9zM_xKce1kdwLt6I_S9Cj5Ri3lj0AtHP1QRmhuWbMvD4F6Lbo5Hvag4/s320/amelia-earhart.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>"No kind action ever stops with itself. One kind action
leads to another. Good example is followed. A single act of kindness throws out
roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new trees. The greatest
work that kindness does to others is that it makes them kind themselves."</i></span><br />
-Amelia Earhart (1897-1937); Aviation pioneer, author </div>Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-33438989030365930722011-09-23T16:41:00.002-05:002011-09-23T16:44:46.831-05:00BE the 1 and Advocate TODAY<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_PBpldpL8x53dtSp7nZRuiN4qyZOq4XDr71IJaqv1Bt5hgixy2eFjw1i9RT7mgLPyhN6XVbDam6Ic3kTYVmxFtaD0J58op15-O5sCzB9TGZ6NvIodQlByeLGICfjaMUjUn4hkZ0abbkQ/s1600/teal-advocate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_PBpldpL8x53dtSp7nZRuiN4qyZOq4XDr71IJaqv1Bt5hgixy2eFjw1i9RT7mgLPyhN6XVbDam6Ic3kTYVmxFtaD0J58op15-O5sCzB9TGZ6NvIodQlByeLGICfjaMUjUn4hkZ0abbkQ/s320/teal-advocate.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Advocate Letter</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I'm a quotes girl. Love them. They're inspiring. Provoking. Motivating.<br />
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<span class="sqq">“The only man who makes no mistakes is the man who never does anything.”</span><img align="middle" alt="" height="9" src="http://thinkexist.com/i/sq/as5.gif" title="Author Popularity 10/10" width="11" /> Theodore Roosevelt<br />
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<b style="color: #e06666;">Be the 1</b> and Advocate TODAY.<br />
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United Way of Olmsted County sent an email today about Advocating to protect Charitable Giving Through Deduction via
taxes. Not sure what that means? (see the bold sentence below)</div>
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<i>The Congressional "super committee" charged with
reducing the federal deficit will be considering whether or not to raise
revenue by changing the federal tax code. <b>Limiting the deduction for charitable
donations is on the table. </b>The Administration is proposing capping the
deduction to pay for a jobs stimulus package.</i></div>
<i>
</i><br />
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</i><br />
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<i>The ability of donors to deduct contributions to charity
from their taxes is a cornerstone of the success of America's charitable
tradition.</i></div>
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</i><br />
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</i><br />
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<b><i>One of United Way Of Olmsted County's top public policy
priorities is to preserve the deduction so we can continue to fund and provide
services for families and individuals in need.</i></b></div>
</blockquote>
Look. We can't let this happen. We need to have organizations, like the United Way of Olmsted County fully accessible for donors to give as much as they would like in this capacity so we can help people in the community and beyond. <3<br />
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They've made it easy for us to advocate - only 1 minute tops!
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click here
--> <a href="http://www.uwolmsted.org/take-action/">http://www.uwolmsted.org/take-action/</a> - click on the map, find your
peeps. Click them all. Send the letter. BAM</div>
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Thanks for <b style="color: #e06666;">Being the 1</b> :-)<br />
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</div>Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-28304450163475889582011-09-22T17:05:00.000-05:002011-09-22T17:05:24.860-05:00Quote of the Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivhas55PCtgzPG3TwCdgVB9ic4tof_ECALIbL58kIa2mp7iNRFrpFIIxc7l9ebs7M93RRuDx8O2ZHt-bEOReAMoBZSL80qvLQ-mFGkO-zg5R77wOc_VqIvjGReBnkwJYxTgsV1TCXmJn0/s1600/musicheart-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivhas55PCtgzPG3TwCdgVB9ic4tof_ECALIbL58kIa2mp7iNRFrpFIIxc7l9ebs7M93RRuDx8O2ZHt-bEOReAMoBZSL80qvLQ-mFGkO-zg5R77wOc_VqIvjGReBnkwJYxTgsV1TCXmJn0/s200/musicheart-01.jpg" width="170" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">"Kind
words are the music of the world."<br />
<b>~ F. W. Faber</b></span>Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-35898115308645539342011-09-15T13:08:00.016-05:002011-09-15T13:38:27.132-05:00What have you done for me lately?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvTGbDMn37XuRSxm4kepbO5bqMmRhMFvxIgZ8D63GWz1coBDqjQKbNMs_zQZwtA3Q9pqsCXFje8wHx5yMVvqplzorbhmy2KzAyzrb1323bxJHC2O0Qsrku441v14t7zReHUGtfO83TbYQ/s1600/orange_flower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvTGbDMn37XuRSxm4kepbO5bqMmRhMFvxIgZ8D63GWz1coBDqjQKbNMs_zQZwtA3Q9pqsCXFje8wHx5yMVvqplzorbhmy2KzAyzrb1323bxJHC2O0Qsrku441v14t7zReHUGtfO83TbYQ/s320/orange_flower.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Some humans ;-) walk around like the universe owes us. But, does it really?<br />
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Wouldn't the world be a different place if we <u>all</u> felt we <b>owed </b>the universe? <br />
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I think we have this question --> "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9uizdKZAGE">What have you done for me lately</a>?" ingrained in our minds from the very point of existence. <br />
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It's difficult to change that concept of thinking. It's human nature to be "selfish".<br />
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But. We should change that way of thinkin'.<br />
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And we can. <br />
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Try this question: "What have I done for others lately?".<br />
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Kind scary, huh? Because it removes ourselves and our own complete wants from the equation. When we do for others, we may lose some of our own time....our own monies....our own strength....we give a little or all of ourselves.<br />
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What do we get out of all this? (see. human selfish tendancy! of course we're going to want to know what's in it for us)<br />
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My answer. So much more then when we're in it to win it all for ourselves.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlEjaCfZuBo5QppzL0hvfpWULEtO3zjPJPyhRoaDbizbI5hXB-OzYRvAXcSapKVbTuPDYThk4O2RyeHiTHNl5tvOe7W1-K1SjhUDBqylV07-JRlSd-6MyxUP-GRZmFaac3hoxhwQsExfU/s1600/hero+ghandi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlEjaCfZuBo5QppzL0hvfpWULEtO3zjPJPyhRoaDbizbI5hXB-OzYRvAXcSapKVbTuPDYThk4O2RyeHiTHNl5tvOe7W1-K1SjhUDBqylV07-JRlSd-6MyxUP-GRZmFaac3hoxhwQsExfU/s320/hero+ghandi.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
It's worth it. Why? Because not only does thinking and doing for others
help another person, it opens our hearts up to helping ourselves in the
long run. <br />
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Ask a volunteer for "Running Start for Schools" how they felt when a child passed through and picked up school supplies they couldn't afford. Look at how an adult who cannot afford food that goes through the food shelf and the look of relief on their face. Watch an elderly person who needed help with their lawn and had a crew show up to save them the strength. Listen to a baby laugh as their parents show and play with new toys they otherwise wouldn't have been able to afford.<br />
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If you haven't already, start today - do somethin':<br />
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<ul>
<li>Give flowers to someone that needs to smell 'em</li>
<li>Write an anonymous note to someone who needs to hear it</li>
<li>Bring candy/ or something healthy to your office for your coworkers</li>
<li>Help your neighbor with a project</li>
<li>Let someone know that you appreciate them</li>
<li>Serenade a friend (ok, this might be excessive but would really like to hear that someone did this. Videotape and send it to me!! haha)</li>
<li>Click on the Volunteer corner of this blog and give of your time to an opportunity at United Way </li>
<li>Become a <a href="http://rochesterrotaryclubs.org/strive/showDoc.cfm?pMenuTop=13&pObject=15">mentor</a> for 2011-2012 STRIVE Program</li>
</ul>
Boom. Shake up the world today. <b><span style="color: #e06666;">Be the 1</span></b>.<br />
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<br />Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7516395440689874482.post-10678789730693902302011-09-13T17:24:00.001-05:002011-09-13T17:25:37.282-05:00Good Deed Story<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEeudBQkUJmsU6nyOU2-dvcpLJSUN6obw84Sj4DZRkOqkbsetktcK2vlnIzfvhK8yBSKiNSctwCSHXITgUOTY-i29SWvmtlanNj4cvBSo-AhMV8F1GhLRBlfDP1-wt_-ZWhoXpTkVu_bE/s1600/gooddeed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEeudBQkUJmsU6nyOU2-dvcpLJSUN6obw84Sj4DZRkOqkbsetktcK2vlnIzfvhK8yBSKiNSctwCSHXITgUOTY-i29SWvmtlanNj4cvBSo-AhMV8F1GhLRBlfDP1-wt_-ZWhoXpTkVu_bE/s320/gooddeed.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I put a call out for people who would be willing to share "Good Deeds" they do (see my blog post below) and I got one today. And it's one that will tug at your heart and SURE to inspire. It made me cry! And I'm a tough comedian or at least I try to be ;-)<br />
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Good deed from a friend on my facebook page:<br />
<blockquote style="background-color: white;">
<i>Little boy waiting to get on the free lunch
list at Kellogg brought money in for lunch today. I took it to the lunch
ladies for him because he was kind of lost, and found out that he was
already $4 in the hole and the money he brought wouldn't cover that or
buy him lunch today. I grabbed $4 to cover him so he could have lunch.</i></blockquote>
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To my friend. Thank you for your kindness and your heart. This little boy may never know who did it, but know he'll walk up to get his lunch and once he sees he can pass through that line and get his lunch, I have no doubt he will have feelings of relief. There's too many people in this world that experience that. ((virtually hugging your neck))<br />
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<b style="color: #e06666;">Be inspired. To be the one <3</b>Danielle Tealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07508147159505444741noreply@blogger.com0