Sunday, September 30, 2007

CIBC Run for the Cure

I ran my first 5km race today. While I certainly didn't set any world records I was able to set my own best time by nearly 2 minutes. I set a goal for myself to finish in 30min or less. I finished it at 30:01. I knew I shouldn't have taken that extra break haha. The run I participated in was for an amazing cause. I chose the Run for the Cure because the proceeds of the event went towards an extremely worthy cause. Breast Cancer will affect more than 22 thousand women this year, and nearly 5000 will die from the disease. Over 170 000 runners took place in this years run from across Canada raising 26.5 million dollars. Participants were as young as infants to the elderly, all doing it at their own pace of walking or running. I even saw a hand full of men from the army running with their equipment on. Everyone was there to support one another and support the cause. Participating in change is as simple as showing up with your pink gear on and volunteering your time. Maybe breast cancer isn't your choice cause, but there are plenty of other runs, events, and ways you can support a cause. So get out there, participate, and make a difference. For more information on the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation click on the following link
Breast Cancer Foundation

Friday, September 28, 2007

One X One Gala

I had the opportunity at the beginning of September to attend the One X One Gala here in Toronto hosted by Matt Damon. It was an incredible gathering of some of the worlds greatest advocates for global change. The event showcased some of the amazing things going on all around the world to improve the lives of those with the greatest needs. OneXOne, the organization, was started by Joelle Berdugo Adler. What a heart. After going through her own experience with her husband she decided there was a need and that she could help to fill it. Her inner drive and will to see change has developed into an annual gathering in which millions are donated to worthy causes around the globe. All that is needed is a spark, and as the saying goes, by lighting a flame you unconsciously allow others to do the same, or something along those lines. So next time you think to yourself, 'I am only one person', the next thought that comes to mind should be, 'I, as an individual, can change the world'. It might not be simple, and it might take a lot of determination but I believe in you. To learn more about One X One click on the link
OneXOne

Thursday, September 27, 2007

Giving

I started reading Bill Clinton's new book entitled Giving: How each of us can change the world. Although I am only 3 chapters in it really gets my mind wandering. I mean this in nothing but the best of ways. Every story, anecdote, and tid bit of information gets me thinking of the possibilities and ideas that I have for creating some good. I particularly liked the idea that Bill and his wife Hillary decided to do within their family. They gave a book about how to donate to younger members of their family along with a bit of money under the idea that at least 25% of it had to be donated and that at the end of each month they would check in and expect a report on how they had done. They did this to breed a culture of giving in their family in hopes that it would become a life-long commitment. I think this is a great gift for any family member not just those of a younger age. If you want to check out the book - which I highly recommend you do the link is
Bill Clinton - Giving: How Each of Us Can Change The World

Tuesday, September 25, 2007

My First Blog

I wanted to start this blog because I know there are many people out there who, like me, want the world to change. I by no means am an expert on doing so, but hopefully with my ambition I can do just a little that others can either replicate or support in their neck of the woods. I want to talk about what I have done, what I am doing, and what I will do. I want to share people that I find inspiring, videos that spark the imagination, and quotes that will move you to action. I want to converse on global issues, current events, and the possibilities. Oh the possibilities. We are all in this together and this has never been more real than it is today. Lets start the ball rolling together. It will be a long and difficult journey filled with trials and tribulations but making a difference in this world is within all our grasps. For those of you who happen to stumble on this blog and want to discuss with me please feel free to check out my Facebook account or email me. I love to hear others exploits and adventures in making a difference.