On supporting a cause...

I decided to blog on my way to PHX today. Usually, I try to catch some shut-eye on the airplane to make up for waking up pre-dawn on Monday mornings. Yet, today has already been unusual. I saw the most amazing sunrise as the airplane took off over the bay - the horizon was ablaze with the most vivid orange I've ever seen, and the crescent-shaped moon was just at the point where the orange from the dawn was merging with the inky blue night sky. It was a gorgeous sight on the first morning of a new year - something I'm sure I'll remember for a long time!

Furthermore, I was sitting next to a young girl whose right-hand fingers were no more than stubs. On first glance, my heart went out to her when I saw her eating her breakfast sandwich, trying to balance it between her hands. Yet, as time went by, I was amazed when I saw coloring perfectly with her left hand, observed her curiosity, and smiled as I heard her friendly squabbles with her brothers. I have no doubt this little girl is going to be just great!

Some of my 'birthday' introspection over the past few days, has included causes I support and would like to support. Over the past couple of years, I've raised funds and donated to organizations that fund research for diabetes, cancer, and multiple sclerosis, as I personally know folks impacted by these health concerns and strongly believe that we need to find cures...soon. And as I observed this little girl, I started connecting the dots over the past few days - fundraising concerts, conversations, and informercials for Asha. I have decided that as I train for the SF Marathon this year, I will actively support Asha, an organization that supports underprivileged kids in India. I'd been marginally involved with the organization back in grad school, volunteering to cook for a fundraising dinner several years ago, and over the years, have donated to their WAH (work an hour) program.

I know that today will be a rough day, given the lineup of meetings at work. Yet, sometimes, we just need reminders that there is so much more to life than work, petty politics, and prejudices. Sometimes, it is about stepping back and looking at the larger picture...but more often, it is about appreciating the good in our lives, saying what you really mean, being there for the folks you care about, taking a chance, helping random people, looking beyond the disappointments and imperfections, making a positive impact, being happy, and doing good. It's not always easy, but hey, that's life. Viva la vida!