The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge has clearly gone viral and beyond. It's brought awareness to this disease as well as donations from all over the world. Although there's questions of whether all the donations will go towards finding a cure, you can't deny that it's raised millions of dollars and brought attention to the disease. Whether you're donating for a cause like ALS, the Alzheimer's Association, or St. Jude's Hospital, or you volunteer at a Homeless Shelter, Children's Hospital, or your local Church, it definitely makes you feel like you're doing something for someone else in a selfless way. So are all these videos out there to bring attention to the disease or for someone's personal promotion?
I actually didn't watch the first and second round of Ice Bucket Challenge videos that were making their way onto the news, Facebook, and other media outlets. I guess I was trying to avoid having to do the actual Challenge and if I wasn't watching, then I wouldn't be called out. I certainly didn't mind donating, as I've done the Walk for Alzheimer's, I enjoy going through my closet and getting rid of things to take to a discount clothing store, or donating magazines to a women's shelter. Then as this whole Challenge was getting bigger I did start watching some of the videos from celebrities and such, and sure enough, one of my best friend's from college challenged me to take the plunge.
You're supposed to complete this Challenge in 24 hours so the following afternoon when I got back from my four mile run and stair work-out, I figured that would be a good time to do it. I grabbed a tray of ice cubes and a bucket and made my way down to the pool. Los Angeles is in a drought so I didn't want to waste fresh water, so I filled the bucket up (making note that it had been played and splashed around in all weekend long, enjoyed by many), stood by the edge of the pool, and flipped that bucket over my head. Yes, it was cold but the moment of chills is nothing compared to the suffering that takes place all over the world. So if this could bring awareness or have someone donate to a charity of their choice or volunteer their time, then it's totally worth it!
We can all find meaning or moments that touch us, so find your truth and give towards that!
So you don't have the money to donate, then what about your time? There are websites dedicated towards finding volunteers for tons of different activities based on the city you live in. You don't have the time? Then how about the next time you go through your kitchen and find that extra set of silverware, or are getting rid of a few pairs of shoes your children have out-grown, or are changing up your living room so those chairs won't match anymore, donate them to a shelter, or find a place that will find good use for them! And if you don't have time or the money, share your smile as you walk down the street; it could brighten someone's day and spark something inside of them that they want to share their happiness and time with others. There's a million ways to give back, and I can promise the feeling you have after doing so, can almost make you feel a little selfish because it feels so darn good :)
