It is said that Andrew Carnegie in his younger years made a pact with his Creator that he would spend the first half of his life making money, and the second half giving it away. Our public library system had its birth in Mr. Carnegie's fulfillment of that pact, as he gave his entire fortune to a trust for the building of libraries.
I've read that story in many of my favorite books, because it is one of the dramatic examples of the very wealthy giving back to bless the world with the abundance they themselves were blessed with. Of course there are many others.
In their books
The One Minute Millionaire and Cracking the Millionaire Code, Robert G. Allen and Mark Victor Hansen talk about Enlightened Millionaires. The concept isn't new, but the phrase is easy to relate to. It appealed to me because until it caught my imagination, I had some vague notion that "when" I had achieved sufficient wealth, I would use a portion of it to help others. The authors were very effective in raising my belief level about being able to give such a magnificent gift.
Reading and pondering these books, as well as Jack Canfield's
The Success Principles, I have come to believe that there is some law of the Universe that encourages and supports giving now, not "when"; but, better late than never! I'm sure some of you believe in and practice the concept of tithing. Others give to charity, either on a regular or occasional basis.
I'm not going to publicly name or enumerate my giving, nor ask you to. I
would like to hear your thoughts on this subject. You see, I have a theory that there is a trend of raised conciousness of this and other, call it spiritual, matters. Let's just say I'm testing my theory.
Occasionally, I may post a cause I believe in, especially if it is one for which a fellow Adland member has offered support. (I've seen a generous spirit here already.) If it appeals to you, please also add your support. If not, don't.
You may find that some of those causes coincide with my offers (
like this one). I hope that won't offend you. If you choose to join an opportunity, some of my profit will find its way to charity; but I won't manipulate you to join for that reason.
No guilt allowed, and no judgements, either. This is not a forum to exhort my fellow community members to give, but rather a place for like-minded people to share their thoughts and ideas on giving back. If you don't want to share, that's ok, too. You are welcome to read.
Thanks for visiting.
Cheri
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Cheri Merz is a real estate broker and home-based business entrepreneur. She also publishes a web-based ezine that explores the pathways to success at any age. Visit
Never2Late4Success for more articles, stories and celebrations of subscribers' success.
These are some of my favorite success books.
Please also visit My Offers.