SARATOGA SPRINGS – There’s more to read on the link below, but I think this sentence summarizes the sentiment perfectly:
The Giving Circle Compassion Award recognizes that even the simplest act of kindness can have the greatest impact on the quality of life for the underserved and downtrodden. This award encourages selfless acts and promotes altruism and compassion in future generations.
– Source: https://www.thegivingcircle.org/wordpress/2018-compassion-awards/.
Indeed, we live in a challenged age, an age in which we lob tear gas across our borders, instead of extending outstretched helping hands. The challenge comes in remaining resolute. Continuing to reach out, when so many have been encouraged to turn inward.
We didn’t choose the age that we live in.
But we can choose how we will live.
Those that chose to live in a world that celebrates compassionate giving and selflessness once again filled the Canfield Casino on Thursday, November 29. Having been to this event in previous years, it was no surprise that it was well-attended. It was, however, a very pleasant surprise to see it so well-attended on the night of the Victorian Streetwalk!
I have to admit that I was a little worried that the festivities which closed the adjacent street down (see:Victorian Streetwalk Post) might put a dent in attendance, but that was not the case at all. Instead, it was a stunning privilege to attend both on this evening, as many did, and experience the diverse versions of goodness and hope that can manifest itself on one night. In one city.
Enjoy the gallery below, but first:
Heart-felt congratulations to the 2018 Award Winners:
Honorary Chairs: Cindy Phillips + Jim Towne:
Local Individual Resident who displays the Embodiment of Compassion – Kathy McNeice
Local Business whose actions displays the Embodiment of Compassion – Longfellows + Olde Bryan Inn
Local Non-Profit who displays the Embodiment of Compassion – The Soul Saving Station
The Founders Award:
Person(s) whose Lifetime of actions are the Embodiment of Compassion – Ed + Lisa Mitzen
TGC Team Awards:
The Serge Shishik Memorial Local Team Member of the Year – Kevin Wheeler
TGC US-based Team Member whose actions Internationally displays the Embodiment of Compassion – Michael Christopher Orza
TGC Uganda-based Team Member whose actions Internationally displays the Embodiment of Compassion – Cecelia Kagya
A COMPASSIONATE GALLERY
CYBER TheGivingCircle.
Arthur Gonick
December 2, 2018
