Last night I treated myself to a fun couple of hours with a great friend, getting some terrific exercise, while doing something we felt happy and proud to be able to do. And it was free. It doesn’t get much better than that– unless of course we could help a lot of people in the process. Which is exactly what happened.
You’ve heard the term, “Collateral damage”? I view activities where I’m enjoying myself while incidentally helping others as examples of “Collateral Goodness”. I much prefer the latter to the former!
Last night Tom and I raced to see how much fun we could have loading a big truck with books, treats, and all kinds of fun and often very useful things that will be sent to servicemen and women around the world. We turned it into a game by working as a team with another man and several women to see how fast and well we could load the tons of goodies that can help bring a piece of home to people who are often working under horrendous conditions to remind them that their efforts and sacrifices are remembered and greatly appreciated.
I really worked up a sweat and loved every minute of it. When we were done, Tom and I wished there had been more to load because we didn’t want the fun to end.
The host organization is called “Blue Star Mothers” and they have chapters all over the place providing many great services for those who serve in uniform.
As you can tell, I enjoyed myself a lot, and highly recommend the experience helping that organization or others as you treat yourself to a fun time.
Russ
Russ Towne's A Grateful Man 
Wow! What fun! I love the race concept, but I especially adore the “Collateral Goodness”! Yet another new expression from you I choose to adopt! Good on you dear man. You and your family and friends share such light in the world. I am SO glad that you blog about it so that I (and many others!) get to read about it and be inspired! You are an excellent role model. With gratitude, Gina
Thank you, dear Gina. I’m learning from the best–and that very much includes YOU!
Russ