A Millionaire Told Me the Secret to Happiness
Photo by Neil Thomas, Unplash photographer
Hello readers,
Are you wondering what the photo above has to do with this post? I would if I had clicked on this. And no, the heading isn’t clickbait. Titles matter, but that’s a subject of a future blog post.
I really did meet a millionaire in Arkansas. Not just any millionaire, a multimillionaire. No, I didn’t date or marry him. I met Mr. H. through a mutual friend, and he invited me and my husband to spend the morning driving a scenic route into the town of Eureka Springs. While there, we had brunch at a historic hotel and enjoyed the tourist attractions. It was the beginning a a beautiful friendship.
Occasionally, Mr. H. would stop by my workplace and ask for me. During these visits, he stayed a half hour or so. He loved to talk. I could stop what I was doing because I owned my own business at the time. He and I had a lot of conversations over the span of a couple of years.
Mr. H. has passed on, but I believe people meet for a reason. He told me something important. “ You may be too young to realize this, but there’s happiness in giving to someone who could never repay you. Someone who is down and out. Giving makes the world go around,” he said.
He spoke about charity. He believed in handing over money, services, and time without expecting anything in return. Only he did get a reward. His business boomed, and joy filled his heart. The more he gave, the richer he became in spirit, and his enourmous bank account funded project after project.
I had always considered myself a generous person. But I stepped up my efforts. Many charities appreciate a person’s time as much as they like monetary gifts. Sometimes, donations from my closet or garage suffice.
Last week, the House of Little Dogs, a group that cares for unwanted canines, drove the dogs from their home base to Gardens of Arkanshire to visit the elderly residents. Most of the people there are unable to care for pets. So they were thrilled to spend an hour holding, petting, and loving man’s best friend. I attended the event.
Volunteering as a dog wrangler, I saw the smiling faces, and wagging tails first hand. I have two chihuahas at home, so I know the importance of physical contact between animals and people. Professional photographers snapped photos of residents with their favorite pup. Treats anyone? Oh yes, please. The facility provided snacks for everyone, and the dog I escorted ate several. Everyone had a swell time.
My most loved nonprofit organizations are Arkansas Chihuahau Rescue , Soldiers Songs and Voices of NW Arkansas , and House of Little Dogs Each of these places work their magic in the world. Both Arkansas Chihuahua Rescue and House of Little Dogs provide homes to neglected, abused, and abandoned dogs. Funds raised allow each animal to receive medical care, food, and shelter as well as other needs. Both places also accept supplies.
Soldiers Songs and Voices of NW Arkansas focus on providing free entertainment to other nonprofits, and they teach guitar to veterans. They supply veterans with guitars in this endeavor. Many of our disabled veterans have flourished with the power of music. During the week, members play for patients at our local VAMC. Sometimes the WWII veterans sing along or dance. Everyone forgets their troubles for a while.
When was the last time you volunteered your time or offered a monetary gift to a charity? It takes a lot of effort, money, and energy to run those places. What is your favorite nonprofit organization? Leave me a comment below.
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