We all have daily opportunities to share our abundance with those less fortunate
We all have daily opportunities to share our abundance with those less fortunate. Share some time, some resources, some money, some leadership. When you choose to share your abundance with others, everybody wins.
A note from Binky Patrol Founder, Susan Finch: This is a story that at some level we can all relate to. It doesn’t matter how big your bank account is, the Bible is filled with stories of those who had very little and gave what they could. They still made a difference. Giving isn’t a quantity thing – it’s a responsibility. Giving your heart, your money, your time, your prayers – it is ALL giving. Here’s Jack’s story.
Sun Valley, Idaho is truly a magical place. We chose to move our family there for some obvious reasons: mountains, skiing, vast blue skies, trout streams and hiking trails laced with wildflowers. Back country was studded with pristine lakes. We were not disappointed. We did receive an additional bonus – the friendship of the locals who lived, worked and raised their families in the Wood River Valley. It was a friendly place with no class barriers. By first name you know the butcher, the fishing guides at Silver Creek Outfitters, the pharmacist, the post office staff, the gang at the Pioneer Saloon and local business owners.
The owner of the Sun Valley Resort was Bill Janss, former member of the US Olympic ski team, civic leader, and philanthropist. As a good steward of the land, Bill wanted to preserve the natural beauty of the Sun Valley area. Bill owned a coveted stretch of Silver Creek, the world-famous trout stream. The creek is about 20 miles south of Sun Valley near the town of Picabo. Consistent with Bill’s reputation as a giver, he gave his prize stretch of Silver Creek to the Idaho Nature Conservancy. The locals were thrilled. This was a significant gift and a significant boost to preserving the area’s natural beauty. Bill then stepped up and handed the Conservancy another gift – a $100,000 check!
In December of 1996 my wife Judy and I attended Bill’s memorial after his long battle with cancer. The Sun Valley Inn was packed with locals. Guy Bonivier, head of the Conservancy at that time, shared with us the story behind Bill’s two generous gifts. Guy had told Bill that after donating his precious Silver Creek rights, he needn’t tack on a check for $100,000. Bill replied, “Guy, if you look in your refrigerator and see that you have three quarts of milk and you can drink only one – then you should share.” And Bill shared his abundance with all of us.
We all have daily opportunities to share our abundance with those less fortunate. Share some time, some resources, some money, some leadership. When you choose to share your abundance with others, everybody wins.
Until we talk again,
Jack Perry
P.S. Giving is not an option; giving is a responsibility.