by John Hewitt

Created on: February 09, 2010

We all want to help and we all want to make a difference to this sometimes harsh environment that we call home. Yet some of us feel that we are limited, either financially or physically and that we cannot really make a difference. So what can we do to become more charitable and make a difference in this world?

1) Start with yourself:

Charity begins with you; give yourself a break and be kind to yourself. You may not have the money of Bill Gates or the resources of Oprah Winfrey but you really can be a charitable organisation within yourself. Loose the guilt and the self doubt and get out there.

2) Home town help:

Where you live, are there any elderly people that need a hand with shopping or would just like a visit? Does your local school need help with a charitable project or some fundraising? How about visiting at hospitals or reading to the blind in your community? There are many charitable things that we can do to help at a local level. Become your own one person charitable organisation and fill those gaps in your home town.

3) Offer your expertise:

Can your professional skills be offered in a charitable way? Can you play an instrument or paint? There are many charitable areas that could use your experience and skills; even if you simply donate a painting to a hospital room or to a nursing home. Being charitable is not just about donating money it is about changing lives and uplifting an individual. I guarantee that there is some speciality that you have that can be used for a charitable cause.

4) Be bright:

This is the unseen charitable work that you can do every day. Smile at a stranger, be polite, open the door for people and emphasise the positive in all areas of your life. This charitable work is unseen but is not unfelt. Small ripples can really make a difference.

5) Start your own cause:

If you feel that a particular issue is not being covered or dealt with then start your own charitable campaign. If you feel passionate about something then get the word out there. Write article, build websites, write letters, make phone calls and try anything and everything to become your own charitable cause. Do not worry about making a massive impact from the beginning; just keep the focus on small individual charitable changes and let the rest unfold.

We all want to do more and we all want to make a difference; well we can! Just become charitable within yourself and then extend that charitable nature from yourself into your community and beyond. The Universe will do the rest!

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