I celebrate Valentine's Day.

I celebrate Galentine's Day.

I avoid celebrating this made up holiday.

All of these comments I have heard from friends and acquaintances. And truth be told, I have held each of these sentiments at times throughout my life.

Nowadays, though, I encourage people to think about changing the focus of the holiday and to fall in love with their favorite nonprofit! Yes, take this holiday to find a way to dedicate time and resources to help something you care about supporting.

For me, it is about volunteering at my favorite nonprofit organization and making donations - financial, time and yes, even blood.

Spend a moment this Valentine's Day to determine what is your favorite nonprofit - and then find ways to fall in love with the work they do and make a plan to become more involved.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Recently while walking I found this button and picked it up. Immediately, I was struck by the simple message around the rim:
* A little more kindness.
* A little less judgment.
* Be a nice human.
* Choose kindness.

Simple statements but often forgotten in the busy-ness of what we call life. It directed my thoughts to ways I could be kinder, less judgmental and a nicer human being. I am making my list and asking you what could you do to be a nice human being? To be kinder? To be less judgmental? Take a minute to think about concrete things you could do.

BONUS: As we know, life has a way of delivering stories to reinforce messages we receive. Check out this story that aired on CBS about how Danny became a nicer, kinder and less judgmental human being by using the best tool in the toolbox - his "heart!"