Today is Ash Wednesday. It is a day when strangers continue to remind me that I have a smudge of dirt on my forehead, as well as the (roughly) 40 days before Easter and the beginning of Lent. Typically Catholics like to mark this day by giving something up. Most people give up sweets, some give up Facebook, you get the idea.

I however, have never bought into this theory of denial. I understand it but rather than give something up I like to use this time to do something positive. In years past, I have committed to favorite causes, given extra time (always the best gift) and tried to use my time and talent for their greatest purpose.

This year, between now and Easter I am committing to do a random act of kindness each and every day …..all 46 of them. So whether it is paying for someone’s expired parking meter, buying a cup of coffee for the person in line behind me or going out of my way to help another. This is the gift I choose to share.

So regardless of your faith or religious beliefs, what can you do in the next 40 days to make your life and the lives of others better?

Charity Matters.

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