Day 9: Lending an Ear

[globalgirl]

Typically when I am approached by a solicitor on the street whether it's for Greenpeace or a nonprofit, I quickly say "sorry, in a rush" and quickly move past the person with the clipboard. Today while walking around I was approaced by a man wearing an American Red Cross jacket. He asked me if I had time and just as I was about to say "no, thank you" I paused and said "sure." He reached out his hand and introduced himself as Josh. He asked me if I donated to the Red Cross and I told him that I did through my company as my employer provides matching donations. Although I already gave to the Red Cross, I let him tell me about what program he was working on and why the Red Cross mattered to him. He stated that when he was 8, there was a fire in his home and the Red Cross was there to offer clothing and shelter to him and his mom. He was asking for an automatic monthly withdrawal from my debit or credit card and even though I declined and told him I prefer to donate through my work, it made me feel good to stop and take 5 minutes to acknowledge his efforts and thank him for what he was doing.

[Deb~ Community Manager]

That was a generous gift of time and compassion to Josh. I know he felt good knowing you listened instead of blowing him off~