This blog is about giving time.
It started as a challenge to myself, a working dad of three, but has become much more. It is for you and anyone in your life who could use a daily dose of inspiration. Positive words. Words that inspire us to live better. Everyday.
I’d also encourage you to read this short note about why I write this blog. It sums up the philosophy behind what you’re reading: https://giveourtime.com/why-this-blog-is-for-you/
The most important to remember –
We *do* have time to make a difference.
Original Challenge
Christmas 2010 came and went like every other Christmas. The malls opened their doors wide; the churches rang with praises, the decorations went up; the kids opened presents; good times were shared round a big dinner. And then it was over. Just like every other Christmas.
Why is it always like that? A feel good month, a few days of rest, then its forgotten. Why can’t we keep that giving spirit everyday? Could I?
Maybe I could keep that spirit of giving alive by doing one thoughtful, giving thing everyday. So I threw up a Facebook post as a challenge to myself to see if I could.
The original Facebook post:
Post-Christmas Resolution:
Every day until next Christmas, I’m going to try
to do something helpful for someone or our community;
something which might be a little uncomfortable;
something which connects me to someone;
something which requires me to listen to people I disagree with;
or something which forces me to seek out people who need a hand up.
in the hopes that it becomes a habit.
I am challenging myself to give my time to make a small difference in the world and to better myself along the way.
I challenge you to join me.
A Note About The Format
At the beginning of every post, I try to find a quote that summarizes my thoughts. There have been so many good writers throughout history, with the power to express in beautiful concise language, the thoughts that define our humanity. It is the least I can do to humble myself before their talent.
At the end of every post, in italics, is how I’ve given my time. Quite often I try to relate my post in some way to how I gave my time that day, or by highlighting an ordinary person, doing extraordinary things for their community.
This intentional, daily action is the heart of the blog, and the path to making our lives and the lives of the people in our world better.
“How far that little candle throws his beams!
So shines a good deed in a weary world.”~William Shakespeare, Merchant of Venice, slightly modified in 1971 for Willie Wonka
Give Our Time 
I like your Xmas resolution! Thanks for the inspiration. It was nice meeting you and your daughters at SOLV. Maybe we’ll meet again for the Spring clean up.
Thanks Hien. Would love to make it out for the Spring cleanup!
I really think you’re a wonderful writer and a real good person; you’re such an inspiration. Bless you more.!
Thank you!
I’m glad Kathryn’s FB post led me your way! Maybe someday I’ll meet you in person, in the meantime, I’m thinking I need to take your challenge! How do I start with such a blog?
Hi Diane,
Starting a blog is pretty easy. I found wordpress.com to be straightforward to setup.
Of course, the most valuable part of this challenge has been the giving. The daily challenge of finding time to do a little more or do a little better has had a profound impact on me.
And, with luck, it has had an impact on the people in our community.
Eric
I like your stories, Eric. It is very inspiring. God bless you.
Thank you, Tahseen. I appreciate your wishes.
I love you more.
Lou,
You’ll have to take that up with my wife. 😉
Eric
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Eric, this is a great blog! Enjoyed your stories and driving the uhaul to outdoor school with good company!
Thanks Charisa! I too enjoyed the trip, in spite of the rain.
I hope my driving was ok. 😉
Eric
Great story. Real life.
Thanks , Jeff!
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Hi Eric,
Thanks for the nice note and donation and for posting our fundraising letter on this blog. It is a very cool blog, by the way. We really appreciate the way you have called attention to the Good Neighbor Center.
Jack Schwab
Executive Director
You are most welcome, Jack. Keep up the great work!
Yes! I want to use my time wisely: and your blog can inspire me even more! Thanks
Thank you!
I hope you’ll discover wonderful changes in your life by finding new ways to give your time to help others.
Eric
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Hi Eric — this year I’ve resolved to bring more kindness and positivity to the world by visiting and commenting on a positive blog every day, while also keeping a list of my virtual travels on my own blog to help others find positive reading material. At first I was worried about not having enough time; but I found that just as you have explained, the more we do, the more we realize we can do! I’ve added your site to my list as today’s entry, and appreciate the good work you’re doing here. 🙂
Hi Meg,
Bravo to you for trying to bring more kindness and positivity to the world!
Like a bucket, the world can’t be full of kindness until every drop has been added.
All my best,
Eric
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