Charity involves understanding and a high level of empathy. We all have our favorite charities. I personally like friends who look charitably at TCL. In turn, TCL and its committed employees look charitably at other worthwhile community projects and organizations. It’s an extension of outreach and a commitment we make to our overall pledge to serve the public. I encourage benevolence to others, and I believe we collectively display that mindset to our students through a meaningful “pay it forward” attitude.
This past week I had a delightful conversation with two dear friends who truly know what it is to be charitable. They are very generous with their time and their charitable contributions. What got my attention during this conversation was their expectation of receiving notes and letters of appreciation for their donations. Their comments reinforced what the literature describes. Donors truly want to be recognized and thanked for their charitable contributions.
It is important to develop a benevolent mindset and to always remember to be thankful in everything we do. The simple act of being gracious by offering thanks goes a long way and sends a powerful message to the giver. Offering a heartfelt thank you goes far toward establishing a genuine long-term relationship. It is so easy to do. It is a good lesson for us to habitually practice the attitude of gratitude in all of our daily doings.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Monday, March 7, 2011
Social Media Protocol.
Is there anyone who does not have a mobile phone? I have a very good friend who uses the ringtone that speaks the word “RING” for an incoming call. The tone becomes more intense with each passing second until he answers the phone. It’s quite amusing. This is the same friend who was the first one I knew to purchase a cell phone. That was 20 years ago.
I have this uncanny ability to always sit or stand next to the individual who forgets to turn off her or his mobile device during quiet times, like in church or in meetings or other public gatherings. The phone rings and the person ignores it, and people look at me like it’s my phone. It’s embarrassing.
One time, a friend handed me his belongings and said, “I’ll be right back.” Naturally I held his items. Guess what? Yes, during a very quiet time at an important public gathering, his phone rang and people looked at me. While this could be a great practical joke, it was not intended as such. I felt stupid. I didn't want to answer his phone, and I didn't know how to mute it.
It’s interesting that technology requires us to consider new sets of protocols. I have trouble sitting next to someone in the airport who is having a private conversation. Do people really have to talk so loud so that everyone is involved in the conversation? Why do we have this desire to be connected to each other constantly? The supermarket checkout line is no time to talk about your social life. At least wait until you are in the car. Is there any such thing as private time anymore?
I think it’s time to write the book on electronic manners and appropriate social technological protocol. Don’t get me started on Facebook and the postings people make. It’s so easy to gripe, but remember, the world is watching.
So what’s my point? Let’s approach our technology with courtesy, always remembering that others are watching or listening. Most of all, be respectful in your communication – all forms of it – always.
I have this uncanny ability to always sit or stand next to the individual who forgets to turn off her or his mobile device during quiet times, like in church or in meetings or other public gatherings. The phone rings and the person ignores it, and people look at me like it’s my phone. It’s embarrassing.
One time, a friend handed me his belongings and said, “I’ll be right back.” Naturally I held his items. Guess what? Yes, during a very quiet time at an important public gathering, his phone rang and people looked at me. While this could be a great practical joke, it was not intended as such. I felt stupid. I didn't want to answer his phone, and I didn't know how to mute it.
It’s interesting that technology requires us to consider new sets of protocols. I have trouble sitting next to someone in the airport who is having a private conversation. Do people really have to talk so loud so that everyone is involved in the conversation? Why do we have this desire to be connected to each other constantly? The supermarket checkout line is no time to talk about your social life. At least wait until you are in the car. Is there any such thing as private time anymore?
I think it’s time to write the book on electronic manners and appropriate social technological protocol. Don’t get me started on Facebook and the postings people make. It’s so easy to gripe, but remember, the world is watching.
So what’s my point? Let’s approach our technology with courtesy, always remembering that others are watching or listening. Most of all, be respectful in your communication – all forms of it – always.
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