No, no, not the movie (though I like that too). I’m talking about giving, people.

So often we go about our daily lives planning for our future relationship, job, house, family without lending a hand to those less fortunate. But part of the circle of life is giving. Giving love to those you care about, a shoulder to cry on for a friend going through a rough time, and advice to those about to embark on a journey you’ve completed or had experience with. Learning life’s lessons is only part of the responsibility. Another part is sharing them.

As someone who started off in a nonprofit for teens and has worked with teens or twenty-something’s in numerous capacities since, I understand and embrace the importance of mentors. I sure appreciate mine, and find it rewarding to watch the interests and dreams of others take shape. Watching their dreams realize is another high altogether.

And the best part is that you don’t have to be an award-winning specialist to help or mentor another person. It just takes heart, a willingness to commit to giving, and a willingness to share mistakes or lessons learned. And it can be way less expensive and much more rewarding than writing a check (though those help too).

You rock at web design? Great! You still love kickball? Awesome. Whatever your preference, whatever your gift, give it. And if you need thoughts on where to start, ask a friend, check out dosomething.org, or even consider the local chapter of a national organization, such as Minds Matter, Inc (one of my personal faves).

The needs are there. Are you willing to fill one?