365 DAYS of
COMPASSION
BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
365 days to do just a little good in the world.
Compassion. No good act is too small. In 2009, the country faced crisis in every direction. Financial turmoil, political strife, and natural disasters had shaken us to our core. We found ourselves wanting to create change, but not entirely sure how. How could we as an ad agency make a difference? Sure, selling products and services keeps the economy churning, but we needed something with a little more heart. Something more personal. More human. And who better to teach us about humanity than Martin Luther King, Jr.? Moved by his notion that, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” we decided that compassion would permeate everything we did for 365 days. And thus, the challenge was born. Our commitment was simple: each day we would take a little extra step to help someone out. Whether we bought someone coffee, donated to charity, or warned someone of the impending dog-doo on the sidewalk, we hoped our acts would brighten, possibly even change, the course of someone’s day. We’re dreamers, but we’re also realists. And we know that best intentions don’t always result in action. So, we decided to let the readers of the San Jose Mercury News hold us accountable by running a full-page ad on MLK day, inviting them to follow our progress on Twitter. Throughout this process we all grew a little. We think twice before being thoughtless. We step up when someone needs a leg up. Because we know that everyone plays a role in increasing the good in the world.
A tragedy can happen anywhere Haiti is desperate but the people aren’t broken. I spread the word to donate and help relief efforts.
DAY
001
In San Francisco, people are no strangers to the devastation that an earthquake can do. I helped Haiti like others helped us back in ’89. Contributed through UNICEF.
DAY
002
Told my girlfriend that instead of eating out at a nice dinner for my birthday, let’s get pizza and make a donation to Haitian relief.
DAY
003
Bought an extra slice of pizza on my way home last night and
gave it to a girl in need who was begging in the rain.
DAY
004
Walked home in the rain, so others could stay dry under the awnings.
DAY
005
A woman was using a shoe as a pillow. Her feet were bare, so I bought her some socks, pillow, and a blanket.
DAY
006
Returned the favor
by buying a friend a tank of gas after he volunteered to drive to Tahoe and back.
DAY
007
Cleared out my closet and donated a bunch of stuff to Goodwill.
DAY
008
Goodwill More closet room for you, a new treasure for someone else. The used. The forgotten. The stashed away . At Goodwill, one person’s clutter is another’ s new beginning. In a given year, Goodwill will keep over five million pounds out of the landfill, by recycling donations. One bag of stuff can improve many lives. Put together a bag of donations and visit goodwill.org to find a donation center near you.
GAVE MY BROTHER A BAG OF
CLOTHES & MONEY FOR GROCERIES.
DAY
009
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on’t wait for people to b iendly, show them how. wait for people to be frien DON’T WAIT how them how. don’t wa eople to be friendly, sho hem how. don’t wait for p le to be friendly, show th ow. don’t wait 0 1 1 for people for people to be friendly, show them how. -Unknown Author I smiled at a stranger.
DAY
be don’t ndly, ait for ow peohem e to
Gave a woman a ride home after she missed her bus. There’s only one afternoon bus in West Marin.
DAY
012
LENT A STRANGER 50 CENTS, A CO-WORKER TWO DOLLARS
&
DELIVERED DRINKS TO PEOPLE ON THE 3RD OFFICE FLOOR BECAUSE THEY SEEMED PARCHED.
DAY
013
Cleaned up my girlfriend’s kitchen.
Her act was making breakfast that made the mess in the first place.
DAY
014
Baked some delicious cupcakes over the weekend to share with the office. DAY
015
Paid the $3 bridge toll for all the passengers in my car pool. DAY
017
Gave a homeless person who sits outside of my house, leftover chicken dinner. DAY
019
Ensured the safe return of a stuffed tiger to the arms of a little girl who had left it behind as she walked off the plane. DAY
016
Helped out a friend who just had surgery. DAY
018
Walked a lost dog home in the middle of the night, after finding him on the street. DAY
020
S E NT A L ET T ER OF E NCOURA GE ME NT T O A F RI END IN TA NZ ANIA WHO JUST STARTE D TE ACHING FOR THE P EA C E C O R PS.
DAY
021
Helped a friend who can’t walk
come over to watch the season premiere of Lost.
Both of our brains hurt now.
DAY
022
Donated my CA tax refund to the California Breast Cancer Research Program in memory of my sister-in-law.
DAY
023
Breast Cancer Research Program If you have nipples you’re at risk. 1 in 5 otherwise healthy women, and even some men, will contract breast cancer. This disease has an unlimited reach, while research is limited to donations. Research done could lead to finding better means of prevention, treatment, and hopefully a cure. Donations are needed to turn research into a solution, please give at cbcrp.org.
Made dinner for my sick girlfriend, who couldn’t say much more than, “I don’t feel good.”
DAY
024
Instead of a Valentine’s gift, made donations to Haiti in my loved one’s name.
DAY
025
BEFRIENDED a friend of a friend
WHO JUST MOVED HERE.
DAY
026
Life is too short to have bad blood. I reconnected with a friend who I had a falling out with.
DAY
027 017
Called my grandmother who I haven’t talked to in months; almost forgot what a wonderful woman she is.
DAY
028
Visited with my 89-year-old grandma and helped a friend mentally prepare (and carb load) for her first half marathon.
DAY
029
Sent a 2nd check to Red Cross for Haiti Earthquake Relief. We can’t forget these people as time passes, their suffering doesn’t.
DAY
030
Red Cross Saving someone’s life comes with free juice and a cookie. Relief is needed in case of an emergency—time, money , and blood can be used to save someone’ s life. If a crisis strikes there’s no time to wait for people to make a donation.
Please help by going to redcross.org to find out where you can donate and how you can help.
Cleaned out my closet, donating three bags of clothing and purses to a less fortunate family friend.
DAY
031
kindness is the language which the deaf can hear he blind can see. kindne KINDNESS s the language in which deaf can hear and the b can see. kindness is the l guage in which the deaf hear and the blind can s 032 is the language in which the deaf can hear and the blind can see. -Mark Twain Sent a card to my grandpa.
DAY
Got caught up with my Uncle Garry. Stay strong Uncle. DAY
033 Bought a round of cheeseburgers for some folks who seemed a little down on their luck. DAY
035
Gave a Jackson for bus fare to my Berkeley vet street buddy Mark Anthony to get his part-time job and get paid in San Leandro. DAY
037
Gave an older homeless woman my leftovers and all the change I had in my bag. It was her 70th birthday. DAY
034
Finished co-signing on my parent’s home loan. DAY
036
Held back my rage after nearly slamming into a car that cut me off. Deep breaths and a smile do feel better than yelling and screaming. DAY
038
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Signed for a neighbor’s package even though I was eating dinner —ended up being medication he urgently needed—
I’m glad I got up.
++++++++ ++++++++ +++++++++ ++++++++ +++++++++ DAY
039
CLEARED MY FRIENDS’ PLATES AT LUNCH AND DINNER. Sometimes it’s the little things.
DAY
040
A friend was feeling especially lonely yesterday, so I surprised her with flowers this afternoon.
DAY
04 1
Helped a friend move a bed (on foot) to save some money.
hts of stairs.
Three blocks uphill and up three flig
DAY
042
Signed up to get beat at basketball by kids half my size.
DAY
043
Rock SF Letting kids prove that they aren’t as rough as their environment. Children living in San Francisco’s Visitacion Valley (often in dangerous public housing complexes) are testing below the national average. Through after school programs, outdoor activities, and educational assistance, you can give kids a chance to have a better tomorrow. Volunteering or making a donation can do some significant good for a child 6-17. See what you can do by going to rocksf.org.
Donated my design skills
to help my dad create a respectful headstone for my recently deceased grandmother.
DAY
044
BOUGHT A HOMELESS MAN
COFFEE AND A
SANDWICH DAY
045
Volunteered a night of my friends’ choice
to watch their kids, so they can have a date night without paying a babysitter.
DAY
046
GAVE A FRIEND, WITH A SEVERE PHYSICAL DISABILITY, A HAND WITH A FEW THINGS THEN JUST KICKED IT WITH HIM.
DAY
047
Dug out the recyclables
that made their way into our kitchen trash.
Compassion for the planet is compassion for everyone.
DAY
048
Walking in the rain, I saw a woman wearing a garbage bag asking for change. I gave her my umbrella.
DAY
049
Helped a friend out
with her class assignment by letting her dress me
in drag.
DAY
050
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Donated to Chilean earthquake victims using Google Checkout. (It’s so easy and every bit counts.)
DAY
052
Convenient Charity Google Checkout Help out when you check out. Amazon and Google now offer checkout charities. Simply add a dollar or two to your total and help someone who has nothing.
Just take a look the next time you are buying something to see if a charitable donation is offered.
Saved a seat for a friend at a pretty packed show. DAY
053
Moved furniture into a friend’s new apartment. DAY
055
Gave some new neighbors a hand moving into their apartment. The elevator was out of service. DAY
057
Helped my sister’s friend send two iPads to Singapore for an anniversary gift. DAY
054
Bought a hot dog for an obviously hungry street person by Union Square. DAY
056
Fed my roommate last night. DAY
058
Bought fresh bagels
for the company for their most important meal. A small act, putting a smile on a face is so rewarding.
DAY
059
TOOK MY PARENTS WINE TASTING IN SAN FRANCISCO LAST WEEKEND. Had a blast, nice to return the favor after all that they have done.
DAY
060
WOKE UP AT
4:15
TO DRIVE MY COUSIN TO THE
AIRPORT DAY
061
Gave a Valentine’s card to a friend who’s in a long-distance relationship, because she deserves all the love for her patience.
DAY
062
Lent a friend my sweet microwave for her new apartment.
DAY
063
s
DAY
064
Donated to two guys doing the 545 AIDS LifeCycle from SF to LA. You can too.
DAY
065
AIDS LifeCycle Two wheels, one goal. A life-changing ride (not a race) spending seven days on a bicycle from San Francisco to Los Angeles raising funds and awareness for HIV and AIDS services. Over $13 million was raised last year to support foundations in both LA and San Francisco who work tirelessly to treat and prevent HIV and AIDS. Riders, roadies, volunteers, donators, and moral support are needed. Find out more at aidslifecycle.org.
RAN OUTSIDE TO HELP A PAINTER recover some tape he had lost when he failed to successfully juggle an armful of stuff.
DAY
DAY
048 066
multiple pairs of shoes to Goodwill. Went through my closet and donated clothes and multiple pairs o shoes to Goodwill. Went through my closet and donated clothes and multiple pairs of shoes to Goodwill. Went through my closet and donated clothes and multiple pairs of shoes to Goodwill. Went through my closet and donated clothes and multipl pairs of shoes to Goodwill. Went through my closet and donated clothes and multiple pairs of shoes to Goodwill. Went through my closet and donated clothes and multiple pairs of shoes to Goodwill. Wen through my closet and donated clothes and multipl pairs of shoes to Goodwill. Went through my closet and donated clothes and multiple pairs of shoes 067 to Goodwill. Went through my closet and donated DAY
Brought the Divine Ms. Stephanie dinner and made it for her while she packed for her week in San Diego.
DAY
068
Made a $50 sponsorship towards my little brother’s high school baseball team.
DAY
069
Listened to a stranger rant about Muni. Sometimes people just need to vent. DAY
070
Just grimaced and smiled when a woman stepped on my foot, twice. DAY
072
Cooked some hoisin pork and baby bok choy for my disabled roommate last night. DAY
074
Gave my roommate some dating advice, helping him woo a girl on a dating site. DAY
071
My aunt lives too far away to visit a friend in rehab. I visited the friend and called my aunt, letting her know how things are going. DAY
073
Gave an ad student some advice on planning and refining their personal brand. DAY
075
Bought coffee for a nice homeless person who always sits peacefully in front of Starbucks and never asks for money.
DAY
076
Channeled my inner Italian
for dinner and made special homemade pasta sauce for a friend.
DAY
077
Having read Born to Run I donated to Norawas de Raramuri, to benefit the amazing ultra-running tribe.
DAY
078
Norawas de Raramuri. The only thing that can outlast these runners is their history. Preserve a secretive and peaceful way of life that has created the most remarkable runners in the world. Known as the T arahumara or Raramuri (meaning light-footed ones) they run for hundreds of miles through the valleys in Mexico, for the sheer love of putting one foot in front of the other.
Learn more about the races they do and those involved at norawas.org.
DAY
079
Volunteered to help the opening of the exhibition of “The Visionary Art of Morris Graves.”
DAY
080
p ta w p ta w p
perspective. willingness ake another perspective COMPASSION willingness to take anoth perspective. willingness ake another perspective willingness to take anoth perspective.081 willingness can just be a willingness to take another perspective. Yesterday, in a heated argument, I did so. It changed everything. -EC1 Employee I listened.
DAY
Gave a slice of pizza to the local homeless guy when he came around to pick up our cans.
DAY
082
After my friends’ plans fell through,
I let them stay at my house for the weekend.
DAY
083
Helped my elderly neighbor clean up her yard. DAY
084
Walked my elderly neighbor to the grocery store, helped her shop and carried the groceries home for her.
DAY
085
Joined the Smile-of-the-Month Club to provide corrective surgeries for cleft lips & palates for children globally.
DAY
086
SmileTrain Smiles are contagious. Approximately 1 in 700 children will be born with a cleft this year. If they’re born in a developing country, chances are they will go untreated, facing a life with difficulty eating, talking, and often fitting in with normal society, even getting an education. For just $250 you can give a child a new chance at life. Please donate by going to smiletrain.org.
Called my old roommate during my lunch break. We hadn’t talked in over two years.
DAY
087
Taking care of a friend’s cat, while she’s out of town.
Meow.
DAY
088
Let a friend stay with me as he looked for a new apartment. DAY
089
Helped my bro set up house after his big move to start grad school. DAY
091
Despite being last minute, I dog-sat my favorite pup for the weekend. DAY
093
Shipped my dad his favorite, cherries and homemade cherry teacakes, for his birthday. DAY
090
Took my parents to several of the best restaurants in the city. DAY
092
Rented a car to help a friend go furniture shopping all over the East Bay. DAY
094
Gave a friend a computer after his died, so he can search for a job on Craigslist.
DAY
095
After showing up at my apartment with a hole in his lip, I spent the night with my friend in the ER as he got patched up from being jumped at a bar.
DAY
096
Called a friend in Poland to express condolences over the tragic plane crash.
DAY
097
hold it longer and sque them tight. hold it longe and squeeze them tight GIVE A HUG, hold it longer and sque them tight. hold it longe and squeeze them tight hold it longer and sque them tight.098 hold it longe only this time hold it longer and squeeze them tight. -EC1 Employee Hugged a friend.
DAY
Gave a $25 micro-loan using Kiva to a budding pharmacist in Sierra Leone.
DAY
099
Kiva Teach someone how to sell fish. Give someone the finances they need to start providing for themselves. You choose an entrepreneur in an emerging country based on their personal story, and donate to help them start their own business. After their business is up and running they will pay back your investment, letting you help more and more people. Start investing in people now, at kiva.org.
DAY
100
SAW A WOMAN
UNKNOWINGLY WALKING TOWARDS A PILE OF DOG-DOO AND RAN UP TO STOP HER. She was happy her day didn’t get worse.
DAY
101
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Talked a friend through some personal and ----------------------------------------------------------------professional problems. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------DAY --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------102 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Four hours of clothing shopping with my lady. Her act was buying me a pair of Star Wars Adidas.
DAY
103
GAVE $22 to an “undercover millionaire,� who said he would reward me with a check that would change my life. I said pay it forward.
DAY
104
On my daily dog walk, a parking valet always has biscuits for my pup. Today, I left him an anonymous tip.
DAY
105
Served breakfast to those in need at the Glide Church. Amazing to see the power of a full belly (and a hair net).
DAY
106
Glide Church Help not helpless. Glide works to break the cycles of poverty through the creation of an all-inclusive, just, and loving community that welcomes everyone including prostitutes, addicts, and people who are HIV/AIDS positive. No one is turned away.
Donations of time, money, and supplies can be made by going to glide.org to learn more.
Wrote and produced radio spots for Glide Church, pro bono. DAY
107
Visited a terminally ill elderly neighbor. DAY
109
Called an old friend out of the blue. We hadn’t spoken for fifteen years but the Happy Holidays wish was appreciated. DAY
111
Guided a tourist through the process of using the new Clipper system. Hope he enjoys San Francisco. DAY
108 Spent my commute on BART talking with a guy who had scary fangs tattooed on his face. He was a little off, but friendly. DAY
110
Gave my parents a break and cooked two meals for my family over the holidays. DAY
112
DONATED
TO PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES WHILE CHECKING OUT AT THE GROCERY STORE. Helping others can’t get any easier.
DAY
113
Filled in for my disabled friend’s attendant. We ordered a giant pizza and watched cheesy movies all night.
DAY
114
can never you can neve ndness too soon. you ca er you can never do a ki YOU CAN s too soon. you can neve can never do a kindnes soon. you can never you er do a kindness too soo can never 1you 1 5 can neve never do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late. -Ralph Waldo Emerson Cared for a sick friend.
DAY
er do an inder ss u can on. er do
Bought a homeless man some socks, shoes, and a Clif Bar. The gash on his foot demanded help.
DAY
116
SUFFERING FROM EXTREME ROAD RAGE
I have made a pact with myself to only honk at one driver per week.
DAY
117
SOLD MY WARRIORS TICKETS TO A RANDOM PERSON ON CRAIGSLIST. THEY OVERPAID SO I GAVE THEM THEIR MONEY BACK.
DAY
118
Donated $10 to International Medical Corps which will deliver complete health services to a mother and her baby.
DAY
119
International Medical Corps Doing more than just patching wounds, teaching others how to heal. This organization trains local populations to diagnose and treat 75%-80% of all illness and injuries they are presented with, while those at highest risk are given emergency medical assistance. Because emerging countries need permanent doctors, not just temporary relief.
Find out how to donate at imcworldwide.org.
Today I returned a late library book, paid the fine, and threw in a couple more bucks as a donation.
DAY
120
My son and I
bought bagels for his school’s teachers this morning. Not a full-on buffet, just a small way to say ‘thank you.’
DAY
121
SORRY, FRIEND. For your own good I prevented you from biking home while intoxicated.
DAY
122
Put my plans on hold
to have a long conversation with a friend who isn’t doing so well.
DAY
123
PUT A BLOG TOGETHER so my girlfriend’s friends and family could leave her messages while she’s in South America.
{SHE LOVED IT.
DAY
124
My hair wasn’t long enough to donate, but I buzzed my head anyways, supporting my girlfriend who is battling lung cancer.
DAY
125
Secretly sent kind vibes to people on the bus. DAY
126
Swept up broken glass on the street near my apartment. DAY
128
Emptied the dishwasher and the overloaded kitchen sink at the office. DAY
130
On my way home, a homeless woman asked me for a dollar for dinner; I gave her the sandwich I just bought instead. DAY
127
Shared a beer and a hug with a friend whose grandfather just passed away. DAY
129
Gave up my seat on the bus for an older woman. Less an act of compassion, more an act of common courtesy. DAY
131
Got some lunch for a friend whose lower back is hurting.
DAY
132
HAD A HIGH-SCHOOL FRIEND CRASH ON MY COUCH AND THEN SHOWED HER AROUND TOWN.
DAY
133
Joined Doctors Without Borders monthly fund support for immediate response to emergencies.
DAY
134
Doctors Without Borders Care for people, whatever side of the line they’re on. Operating independently of any political, military , or religious agendas, Doctors W ithout Borders provides care based on who needs it most. Their neutrality is key as it allows them to operate in war-torn countries on both sides of the conflict. They are only able to stay neutral by receiving private donations, rather than government assistance. Help them stay focused on aiding people, not politics, by donating to doctorswithoutborders.org.
RECONNECTED WITH A COUSIN
who was once a much bigger part of my life, making plans to get together and have a proper catch-up.
DAY
135
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+++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++++
STARTED THE DAY WITH A SMILE,
making it a point to say “good morning” to anyone I made eye contact with.
DAY
136
Gave the agency kitchen a thorough cleaning. Our dishes are no longer collecting spores, molds and fungi.
DAY
137
Gave the casino $90 back from the $500 I took from them.
DAY
138
DAY
139
DID MY BEST IMPRESSION OF THE DONUT FAIRY AT WORK Co-workers were in need of some sugar.
DAY
140
The HandsOn Network connected me and other volunteers with a local organization in need. No commitment, just fun.
DAY
141
HandsOn Network More than just good intentions, actual tangible results. Working nationwide, thousands of volunteers get together to provide communities with what they need. Getting dirty and working with your hands can be much more gratifying than just writing a check. Playgrounds, gardens, and wheelchair ramps all have been created by people like you.
Find out about volunteering for a community project in your area by going to handsonnetwork.org.
Called my Grandma to wish her a very happy birthday.
Born in 1923, she’s seen some damn cool stuff.
DAY
142
Bought a plane ticket
to visit my mom in the hospital for a week. It was just what I needed to do.
DAY
143
Invited an old friend from out of town to spend the weekend in San Francisco with me. Enjoyed catching up. DAY
144
Picked up my husband’s prescription at the pharmacy. DAY
146
My sister’s friend tragically killed himself last weekend. Wanting to help, but not knowing what to say, I mostly listened. DAY
148
Compassion can mean supporting what you believe in. I sent my congressman letters about net-neutrality legislation. DAY
145
Helped clean up a little boy who got sick in my daughter’s 2nd grade class; poor kid was a trooper. DAY
147
Gave a friend who has always wanted to see San Francisco a personal tour. Full disclosure, I enjoyed it too. DAY
149
Giving friends rides like I’m a limo driver; except with a MINI. Sadly no MINI bar.
DAY
150
Gave directions to tourists, helping them find their way around San Francisco.
DAY
151
Bought chocolate, carrot, and cheese cake for drunk homies at 2am.
DAY
152
PLANNED
A DINNER IN SAN FRANCISCO
In honor of my cousin’s graduation from grad school.
DAY
153
BOUGHT
a Mother’s Day present that helps all moms. Donated at helpamotherout.org to give diapers to low-income families.
DAY
154
Help a Mother Out Poop happens. In San Francisco, diapers are not covered under social-safety programs, leaving many mothers without a way to clean and comfort their upset baby. It’s surprising, but true. One diaper can improve two lives.
Donations of diapers can be made in person, online, or you can just support the program by going to helpamotherout.org.
Carried an older woman’s walker in and out of an elevator.
DAY
155
, compassion and forgiv s the important thing. lo mpassion and forgivenes ALL MAJOR important thing. love, co sion and forgiveness the ant thing. love, compass forgiveness the importa g. love, compassion and 156 religious traditions carry basically the same message, that is love, compassion and forgiveness...the important thing is they should be part of our daily lives. -Dalai Lama
Smiled and waved at a car cutting me off.
DAY
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Took the opportunity to help some ad --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------students get started on an agency project. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Their enthusiasm made me happy. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------DAY --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1 5 7 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DROPPED OFF A BAG OF GROCERIES, TO A HOUSEBOUND WOMAN IN NEED. IT’S EASY TO FORGET THAT THIS NEED EXISTS.
DAY
158
Lent a friend a few bucks for her cash-only lunch choice.
DAY
159
DAY
160
Used a bit of my time and a connection to help out BRUTE LABS.
DAY
002 1 61
Brutelabs.org Design a new solution. The project works to find creative solutions to the world’s problems. Fresh ideas and award-winning design have been used to find homeless people shelters, provide water to African villages, and clean up the neighborhoods we live in.
Help find more measurable solutions by going to brutelabs.org.
Small tremble in SF this morning, reminded me not to forget Haiti. Donation made.
DAY
162
Brought along a trash bag and cleaned up a portion of Sausalito on my morning dog walk. Got a few ‘thanks’ and a few funny looks.
DAY
163
Spent some time figuring out something on my own, so my boss could enjoy her vacation distraction-free. DAY
164
Cleaned a friend’s dishes so she didn’t have to. DAY
166
A woman in front of me forgot her wallet, so I bought her breakfast. DAY
168
Gave a woman on BART a dollar who missed out on the homeless shelter and needed a room for the night. DAY
165
Shared a crumpet with a co-worker in need of some breakfast. DAY
167
A good friend was just dumped. Last night I listened, tonight we go to the bar. DAY
169
Stopped to help the postwoman pick up a stack of letters she had dropped.
DAY
170
Took care of all the packing so my overworked husband doesn’t have to worry about the details of our vacation.
DAY
171
Arrived two hours early to a movie to secure some space in line for twenty of my closest friends.
DAY
172
Helped my housemates
move all weekend. Enjoying my new apartment, sad that we now live apart.
DAY
173
Retooled some marketing efforts for the SF Food Bank done by another ad agency.
DAY
174
SF Food Bank Your neighbor might be starving. The SF Food Bank strives to feed people with clean, tasty , healthy food. The city of San Francisco has a staggering hunger problem. Over 200 thousand people are struggling to feed themselves. An empty stomach can be just as bad as filling it with junk.
Every $1 donated distributes $6 worth of food. Go to sffoodbank.org and give now.
SHARED SOME OF MOMMA’S BEST COOKIES AROUND THE OFFICE. Home cooking is good, home baking is better.
DAY
175
Bought a co-worker a cup of coffee. Not important, unless you don’t have one.
DAY
176
Drove an acquaintance into work this morning ,
because she was having back problems.
DAY
177
Helped some tourists feel a little more local.
DAY
178
Cooked a couple of meals for a friend who just had a baby.
DAY
179
Smiled at five strangers today. Three smiled back. One was kind of creepy.
DAY
180
Taught my roommate how to make my uncle’s famous homemade pasta sauce. Compassion lives in the stomach as much as the heart. DAY
181
Bought lunch for three of my co-workers, just because. (Put us all in a good mood for a tough day.) DAY
183
Took care of a friend’s dog for a week while he’s on vacation. DAY
185
Drove my friend to the airport at 5:00am. DAY
182
Made some comfort food for a friend who needed some comforting. DAY
184
Was an ally for my cousin when he came out to the rest of our conservative family. DAY
186
Donated a large quantity of clothing to the Raphael House.
DAY
187
Raphael House Finding a home is almost impossible when you have nowhere to sleep at night. Raphael House provides a safe haven for families, giving them the environment and services they need to find a home for themselves. This includes: financial education, childcare, and a place to stay . Raphael House works to put an end to homelessness. Money is needed to keep a roof over the heads of people going through a difficult time. Please go to raphaelhouse.org to donate today.
hope. it is compassion. it excellence. hope. it is co passion. it is excellence. AMERICA IS t is compassion. it is exc ence. hope. it is compas t is excellence. hope. it i compassion. it is excelle hope. it is compassion. it 188 hope. It is compassion. It is excellence. It is valor. -Paul Tsongas Talked with a stranger at my bus stop.
DAY
t is om. hope. celssion. is ence. t is
Gave a friend a bite of my favorite burger.
Introduced her to the wonder that is wasabi-raspberry aioli.
DAY
189
Took a friend’s cat to the vet to see about doing something for the poor kitty’s eye infection.
DAY
190
FIXED AN OLD FRIEND’S
COMPUTER
DAY
191
Offered my seat on the streetcar to a woman and her young boy.
DAY
192
Went to a garden premiere that a friend had landscaped.
DAY
193
DAY
194
Took my mother out for Father’s Day, she still mourns the loss of my dad.
It’s still hard after five years, particularly on holidays.
DAY
195
Donated time stacking shelves at the local St. Vincent de Paul Society food bank in Marin.
DAY
196
St. Vincent de Paul Society Embracing the world through charity. Through providing the largest homeless shelter in Northern California, the organization has been crucial in helping impoverished men and women in our society. By providing hope and service to people individually, those in need have a better chance at breaking their cycle of dependence.
See what you can do to help by going to svdp-sf.org.
eople first, with histories and hearts. people first, ith histories and hearts. SOMETIMES eople first, with histories and hearts. people first, ith histories and hearts. eople first, with histories and hearts.1 9people first, 7 I need to remember that homeless people are people without homes, but people first, with histories and hearts, not just needs. -EC1 Employee Gave a homeless man a dollar.
DAY
s , . s , . s ,
DAY
198
SET MY MOM UP WITH GMAIL.
Hotmail is not something anyone should have to live with.
DAY
199
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PROOFREAD MY SISTER’S RÉSUMÉ
for her first real job, hoping she gets it.
DAY
200
Made some soup for a good friend whose newborn is seriously ill. DAY
201
Bought a homeless woman breakfast. DAY
203
Bought a plane ticket for a friend so she can afford to go on a trip our group of friends is taking. DAY
205
Gave some money to the musicians who entertain us daily at the BART station on my way home. DAY
202
Took photos for my boyfriend’s family. DAY
204
Chatted with my 86-year-old grandmother this Christmas. She’s an incredible woman. DAY
206
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207
I donated
While commuting on BART to the Oakland Dynamites football team so that they could afford to travel to finals this year.
DAY DAY
208
Donated to Child’s Play.
DAY
209
Child’s Play Charity Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A, Start, Help Sadly there aren’t any cheat codes in life, but a good video game can bring a smile to any kid’ s face. Children around the nation are stuck in the hospital with nothing to do. Donating video games, toys, books, and cash can lift a child’s spirits, making them, and you, feel better.
Even if you’ve never played a Nintendo, see what you can do by going to childsplaycharity.org.
never look down on anyody. never look down on ybody. never look down NEVER on anybody. never ybody. never look down on anybody. never look down on anybody. never look down2on 1 0 anybody. look down on anybody unless you are helping them. -Jesse Jackson
Helped an old woman onto the bus.
DAY
n n r n k r .
Instead of getting angry I joked around with a cashier as I waited (for a considerable time) to return some clothes.
DAY
211
Helped a good friend pack up her apartment to move across the country. Held back my sadness too.
DAY
212
Ran and got some dinner for a co-worker who had to stay late.
DAY
213
CALLED A FRIEND OUT
when he was planning on driving home drunk.
DAY
214
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BOUGHT A CO-WORKER LUNCH
at our favorite Greek joint.
DAY
215
Gave a homeless man some apples on my way home from work.
DAY
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Fortunate enough to be going into my final semester. I donated some money to roomtoread.org, hopefully giving someone else a chance at an education.
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Room to Read “We are too poor to afford an education. But without an education we will always be poor.� -Nepalese Headmaster Room to Read was created to focus on raising literacy rates and gender-equal education in developing countries. Through the creation of schools and libraries, and by maximizing investment and creating sustainable, scalable, and measurable results, almost a million children have benefited from the program. Give someone a chance to better their tomorrow by visiting roomtoread.org today.
Threw a home run ball back over the fence so the game could continue. DAY
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Cat-sat for a friend’s giant tabby. DAY
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Cooked Mexican food for my French boyfriend and his family. They love enchiladas. DAY
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Threw my friend a Lady Gaga-themed going away party. DAY
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Picked up a toy for a kid whose arms were too full of fun. The dragon swordsman action figure is bound to hit the ground again. DAY
222 Took a friend out for some drinks who is leaving for the Peace Corps in a few weeks. DAY
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HAD A CONVERSATION
with a homeless person about our shared appreciation for soccer.
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LEFT $50 AT THE FOOT
of a sleeping homeless man.
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n compassion lies the w rue strength. in compas ies the world’s true stren IN SEPARATENESS n compassion lies the w rue strength. in compas ies the world’s true stren n compassion lies the w rue strength. 227 in compas lies the world’s greatest misery, in compassion lies the world’s true strength. -Buddha Gave my girlfriend some flowers.
DAY
Mentored my Mom in her decision to accept a new job, so happy to help her out after the 25 years that she’s been helping me.
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Made cupcakes for my soccer team. We’ve been having a rough season, frosting helped.
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Had a long overdue chat with a friend.
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Repaid my girlfriend’s parents for all the delicious meals I’ve eaten at their house, by cooking them dinner.
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Gave my seat up to a woman standing on the bus.
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In memory of the dog I lost this year, I donated a couple bucks to the ASPCA to help our furry companions.
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ASPCA Give them a reason to bark and meow. Our four-legged friends need someone to speak for them, to protect them from abuse and keep them out of harm’s way. This is the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and they’ve been speaking up for our furry, shaggy, and whiskered companions for over a hundred years.
Get involved. Go to ASPCA.org today to see what you can do.
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DROPPED ALL PLANS ON A FRIDAY NIGHT to make dinner and pick up a movie to help a friend out.
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LENT A FRIEND SOME MONEY
for a plane ticket to go see his mother on her birthday.
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Sent my friend’s portfolio to one of Engine Company 1’s creative directors. DAY
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Called my grandparents and a long-lost friend. I think I brightened their day. DAY
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Sat down to write an honest-to-goodness pen and paper thank you note, rather than send an email. DAY
240
My friend’s son was diagnosed with a very serious disease. I joined the effort by pouring all my love and prayers for strength and healing, into a meal for them. I’m going to do it again and again until their fight is over. DAY
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I managed to hook a friend in need of work with a freelance gig in Portland. Timing is everything. DAY
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Currently reading a book to better understand my best friend’s mental disorder. DAY
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Spent some time contacting as many people I know to help a friend find a job. He got a serious interview.
DAY
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Helping a friend who just moved to the area look for a job.
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LIFE IS TOO SHORT.
Helped two of my good friends reconcile their bad feelings towards each other.
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Lent a sympathetic ear to a friend having relationship troubles.
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Put together a 250-piece IKEA furniture kit for a friend who was too burnt out from moving.
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------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Called my nephew in New Jersey to say that --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------I missed him. The best part was when ----------------------------------------------------------------he said he missed me too. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------DAY --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------247 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cut off 11 inches of hair and donated it.
DAY
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Locks of Love With one snip you can give a child their confidence back. Ten inches of hair is all it takes to create a wig for a youngster dealing with an illness. Share your style and self esteem, with someone who could use it.
Please go to locksoflove.org to find out how to turn your ponytail into a kid’s new hairdo.
Got involved with a mini “get out the vote� with some friends to meet the registration deadline.
DAY
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ow
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ittle, nameless, unremem bered acts of kindness a ove. little, nameless, unTHE BEST remembered acts of kind ness and love. little, nam ess, unremembered acts of kindness and love. litt 251 nameless, unremembere portion of a good man’s life-his little, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and love. -William Wordsworth Left candy for my co-workers.
DAY
mand dmes tle, ed
Switched seats on an airplane so that a couple could sit together.
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A homeless man outside the grocery store asked for a beer so he got one. DAY
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Decided to spare the air and walk rather than drive a few miles to grab lunch with a friend. DAY
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Picked up my girlfriend from the airport and brought her some sushi. DAY
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Gave a young lady some change for her meter, and refused to accept her bills in return. DAY
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I gave up the second half of my slice of pizza to a young man who asked nicely for it. DAY
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Helped a friend pack and move into his new place. DAY
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DONATED SEVERAL BAGS OF CLOTHES TO GOODWILL. My old Hawaiian shirt will look great on somebody.
DAY
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Donated a pair of unused track shoes to a Bay Area low-income high school program.
DAY
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Helped pry open the doors of a BART car that had closed on an older woman. They will crush you. Thankfully, she was okay.
DAY
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The last conversation I had with a friend, I listened more than I spoke.
DAY
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Out of compassion for the struggle of humankind for justice with dignity, I joined the ACLU with a donation and promise of support.
DAY
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ACLU No matter who you are, you are innocent until proven guilty. Everyone should be guaranteed basic civil liberties. Rights protected under the first amendment, equal protection under the law, due process, and privacy . Steeped in controversy , the ACLU does what other people don’t want to do: defend anyone who is having these rights infringed upon.
The only way to continue protecting our rights is through support; become a member or donate by going to ACLU.org.
DROVE MY NIECE TO WORK
so that she didn’t have to take the train.
DAY
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HELPED MY 90-YEAR-OLD GRANDMA
try on some new clothes.
DAY
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Bought my broke friend a beer... he needed it.
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Gave my husband the only umbrella
DAY
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and went without one.
Adopted a puppy last weekend, giving it the best new home ever.
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Drove three colleagues to and from Monterey for meetings.
DAY
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Helped a 77-year-old friend with lung cancer live out her bucket list. DAY
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Worked on a logo design for a friend lacking art skills. DAY
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Left a concert early to console a friend who had found that their grandfather had endured a stroke. DAY
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Volunteered to watch my cousin’s two small children for a weekend while they went to a wedding. DAY
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Brought dinner for some friends who just had a baby. DAY
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Bought a ticket for a man rushing for the train who found he didn’t have enough. DAY
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READ STORIES
and put my little cousin to bed so her mom could have a night off.
DAY
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PUT TOGETHER A PHOTO BOOK for my husband’s family in memory of their late father.
DAY
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Photoshopped a friend’s hair,
letting her see how she’d look with a new color. She stayed blond.
DAY
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-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Rescued a crawfish that had wandered too ----------------------------------------------------------------far by throwing it back into the lake. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------DAY --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------279 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Made a small donation to Push America, a fantastic organization that serves people with disabilities.
DAY
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Push America Better yourself by helping someone else.
Led by the fraternity Pi Kappa Phi, the organization supports construction projects, raises funds, and provides volunteer opportunities, helping people who are severely disabled. Their Journey of Hope (a cross-continental bicycle ride) has raised over $15 million to help people who are handicapped. Go to pushamerica.org to see how you can get involved.
Helped an elderly lady get down a flight of slippery, icy stairs.
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Invited a widowed, elderly neighbor to join our family for Thanksgiving.
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a qu A ay t. B ey ed i r e nt s lov o M d to r ki s et y; he k c i p e t hap m so s so d a n rie he w f my S
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Gave a friend a ride to the airport to catch a flight to SoCal. DAY
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Stopped a girl’s dog from running into the street. She was beside herself with joy. DAY
287
Checked out a place in West Oakland for a friend who’s moving to town. DAY
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Dog-sitting for a friend while she is out of town. DAY
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Walked an elderly man to the nearest BART station. DAY
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Helped a friend revise a cover letter for a job he really wants; also crossing my fingers hoping he gets it. DAY
290
Gave a cup of coffee
to the homeless painter who sleeps outside of the agency.
DAY
291
Offered to watch my friend’s cat while she’s in Israel for the next two weeks. Also stifled my jealousy that she gets to go on a free trip.
DAY
292
Gave to my friend’s “MS Sucks” walk. DAY
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Multiple Sclerosis Walk Not knowing what the problem can be is just as terrifying as the problem itself. Little is known about Multiple Sclerosis its symptoms, causes, and preventions all remain mysterious. Sometimes it takes years for people to get an accurate diagnosis, which is just as devastating as having the neurologic disorder. The MS Walk has raised awareness and millions of dollars needed to shed more light on this problem. Find a walk near you at nationalmssociety.org.
For not just my health, but in response to: my family, friend’s, and girlfriend’s concern-today will be the day I quit smoking for good.
DAY
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Got up to get my girlfriend some water,
hoping to ease her cough. Her cold kept her up all night.
DAY
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It’s not the size of the cake that matters, it’s the thought that counts, and the amount of frosting. I baked cupcakes for a friend’s birthday.
DAY
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Bought an obscene number of Girl Scout cookies from a friend’s daughter.
DAY
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BOUGHT A DRINK FOR A FRIEND
who had been having a really rough week. He returned the favor by sharing some laughs.
DAY
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NOT HAVING BUS FARE IS THE WORST. I paid for a distressed woman who didn’t have enough change.
DAY
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Made a donation to Playworks, to maximize recess.
DAY
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Playworks Bringing some structure to the junglegym. Organized play at recess can give kids the exercise they need while also building teamwork and social skills. While recess is a time that most students look forward to, it can also be a time filled with fights, bullying, and injuries. Playing has been shown to improve development by structuring recess.
Go to playworks.org to keep recess productive.
Dropped off all m y moving boxes to
help a friend prep
aring to move.
DAY
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Helped out a co-worker carrying a desk down
and then back up some stairs.
DAY
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e dew of compassion is a ar. the dew of compassio ear. the dew of compass The dew a tear. the dew of com ssion is a tear. the dew o mpassion is a tear. the d compassion is a tear. th w of compassion is a tea 303 of compassion is a tear. -Lord Byron
Lent an ear to a grievant friend.
DAY
Helped a girl
carry her possessions who was struggling to move into her new place.
DAY
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Every morning I walk to my 85-year-old mother’s house, make sure she takes her medicine, and then we have breakfast together. DAY
305 Gave a Giants playoff ticket to my niece who was desperate to go to the game. She was so excited. DAY
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Took care of a little girl whose mom was unexpectedly delayed in the hospital. DAY
309
Wrote a $20 check to a guy who was in a “stay in school� program (Was it a scam? Likely.) But the world needs less skepticism. DAY
306 Gave a woman the rest of her fare when she got stuck inside the BART station. DAY
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I bought a two-hour sunset cruise for the family that took care of me while I was in SoCal. DAY
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When a couple rushed to cut me off at the entrance to Starbucks this morning, I held the door and wished them a Happy New Year.
DAY
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A friend is returning to Tanzania for her second year in the Peace Corps, so I sent her off with some movies to hopefully keep her from getting too homesick.
DAY
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Waiting for a table I let a mother and her son sit in a crowded restaurant’s waiting room.
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Emptied the dishwasher for my mom.
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Covered a friend by throwing in a couple of extra bucks at dinner.
DAY
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Let the person
in a hurry go ahead of me at lunch.
DAY
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Compassion for my health, I started running today and plan on continuing tomorrow.
DAY
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Every Thanksgiving, several hotels cook meals for the SF firefighters who aren’t able to spend the holiday with their family.
I brought some food to a different engine company.
DAY
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Thanksgiving for Firefighters Firefighters don’t need to get burned in their own kitchen too. While they work non-stop to boldly save people, amenities including food are not provided for them by the city. Donations to firehouses are greatly appreciated. There is an abundance of food donations made around holidays, so consider donating a Thanksgiving turkey in July .
Made my dog’s day by going a few blocks further on our morning walk.
DAY
320
1 Made a calendar for a friend and myself, so that we didn’t have to spend money buying a fancy one.
DAY
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Brainstormed ideas for a friend’s nonprofit organization. DAY
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Helped my neighbor out with some jumper cable action. DAY
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Helped a good friend take a dream trip to San Francisco. DAY
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Paid the bridge toll for the car behind me. DAY
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Sent a handwritten note to an old friend in Australia; we haven’t spoken in over 15 years. Hopefully he hasn’t moved. DAY
325 Took our intern out to lunch on her last day. She will be missed. DAY
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EMPTIED OUT THE OFFICE DISHWASHER and reloaded it with all the dishes from the nasty, overcrowded sink.
DAY
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BOUGHT A COFFEE
from the independent coffee truck down the street that seems to be struggling.
DAY
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----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Encouraged my sister’s boyfriend to check ----------------------------------------------------------------out a really cool grad program ----------------------------------------------------------------he’s interested in. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------DAY --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------330 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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driving directions
Gave an elderly couple to a restaurant, despite getting soaked from the rain as my stomach was grumbling.
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ight of love and human compassion enter the so of men. light of love and HAPPINESS human compassion ente he souls of men. light of ove and human compa sion enter the souls of m ight of love332 and human and peace will come to earth only as the light of love and human compassion enter the souls of men. -David O. McKay Bought a friend a drink.
DAY
BAKED A CAKE FOR MY ROOMMATE’S BIRTHDAY.
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Surprised
my grandparents by calling them out of the blue. I think it made their day. DAY
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HELPED A BUDDY WITH HIS JOB,
figuring out how his product might fit in with ad agency needs.
DAY
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Shipped a pile of used running shoes to Shoe4Africa.org. Presumably, somewhere in Kenya there is a needy kid with size 13 feet. DAY
336
Shoe4Africa Helping someone can start by kicking off your shoes. Fulfill a need by sending your shoes. You can protect the people of Africa from infectious diseases and parasites that their bare feet are at risk of contracting. What started with shoes has expanded to helping to provide: hospitals, schools and education, AIDS awareness, helping with women’s empowerment, peace resolution, and food to the hungry.
Please go to shoe4africa.org to see how you can get involved.
Even though he didn’t ask, I gave a guy with a flat bike tire a bag full of clothes and a few bucks.
DAY
337
+++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++++
+++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++++
PUT ON A HAPPY FACE
and went grocery shopping with my girlfriend after work, instead of going straight to the couch.
DAY
338
Perked up my bleary-eyed co-workers by making some cappuccinos this morning.
DAY
339
Gave some money to a street musician. Only wish he had a CD to buy.
DAY
340
Escorted a soggy, umbrella-less, and incredibly sweet stranger to her destination. DAY
341
Bought breakfast and a blanket for a Peet’s Coffee acquaintance who was revealed to be homeless. DAY
343
Haven’t needed to take a bag from a grocery store in months since I started carrying reusable bags in my purse. DAY
345
Drove my little brother around for his homecoming dance. DAY
342
Contacted an old roommate from college; we hadn’t spoken in 24 years. DAY
344
Turned over a Certificate of Deposit to a friend (and his family) who has been out of work this last year. DAY
346
Helped teach a four-year-old French girl how to speak English.
DAY
347
Helped out a friend with her psych program by letting her poke around in my head. Hopefully she doesn’t find anything bad in there.
DAY
348
Helped an older woman who was having trouble with the new digital parking meters.
DAY
349
Picked up lunch for a co-worker who was chained to his desk by work.
Working in a dungeon has its drawbacks.
DAY
350
Working to recruit more Big Brothers and Big Sisters for a school project. There should never be a waiting list for young kids looking for guidance.
DAY
351
Big Brothers Big Sisters Be a hero without wearing a cape. Kids need someone to look up to. For over 100 years, the program has been pairing children in need with mentors. Having a positive example in their life has shown to reduce the likelihood that a child will begin using drugs and alcohol, do better in school, and socialize better with friends and family.
Become a mentor today at Bbbs.org.
Shared a cab with a total stranger to make sure they made it home okay.
DAY
352
Broke down and took care of the abandoned-unclaimed water glass left in the bathroom for weeks. Promptly washed it and my hands.
DAY
353
generosity is doing some hing nice for someone who will never find out. REAL generosity is doing some hing nice for someone who will never find out. generosity is doing some 354 someone hing nice for generosity is doing something nice for someone who will never find out. -Frank A. Clark
Left motivational Post-its for my girlfriend.
DAY
BOUGHT “TICKET TO RIDE,” AN AWESOME BOARD GAME, TO PLAY WITH MY FAMILY. The price was so worth the time I get to spend with them.
DAY
355
Gave advice to some students on the street who were trying to decide where to live in Berkeley.
DAY
356
n t igh e dow n t e t th mma ht n e o Sp y ro foug nd. m he ie ing ter s boyfr m l f a her ca h wit
DAY
357
Invited a friend over for dinner to talk about the rough day they were having. DAY
358
Let a car in on my commute when everyone else kept passing them by. DAY
360 Got up in the middle of the night to let the dogs out and let the hubby keep sleeping. DAY
362
Drove a friend to their doctor’s appointment and then to the airport. DAY
359
Donated $10 to the SF Food Bank because I heard they were coming up short this holiday season. DAY
361
Distributed jackets and shoes to the homeless people in my neighborhood. DAY
363
Signed up for the Jog for Jill event hosted by The Bonnie J. Addario Lung Cancer Foundation.
DAY
364
The Bonnie J. Addario Lung Cancer Foundation Not all smokers get lung cancer; not all lung cancer patients smoked. The goal is to increase the 15% survival rate associated with lung cancer, which hasn’t changed in decades. Little is done researching cures and treatment because of the stigma that this is a smoker’ s disease. Our loved ones shouldn’t have to suffer through this. Please put this belief to rest and donate today by going to lungcancerfoundation.org.
Finished our year of compassion by going to the SF Food Bank, volunteering our time as an agency. Taking a step back from our office lives, we did what we could to help out our fellow San Franciscans. Everyone spent the day sorting boxes and boxes of carrots. And we realized that during our daily lives it’s so easy to obsess over headlines, kerning, and spreadsheets, forgetting how feeding someone who’s hungry is far more important.
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365
So now what? Going into this we had no real expectations for what the outcome would be. Of course we had dreams along the way, that maybe our acts would inspire do-gooders to don a costume and start fighting crime. While this didn’t happen (as far we know), our connection to humanity was strengthened. And that’s why we’d do it again. In truth, this book never really ends (although sparing trees requires that it does). The responsibility of spreading good and positivity in the world rests on all of our shoulders. So we pass the challenge on to you. There are: parking-meters, bellies, hearts and bins to be filled. There are strangers that need to be pleasantly surprised. There are small, medium, and large problems to tackle. Go now. Seriously. Get out there. The world is waiting.
In loving memory of Jill Costello, keeping her message alive to always, “Go Big.�
Started over again.
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001