Give Thanks Any Day

Team Rubicon in the Philippines

Thanksgiving is the day we celebrate the day when Native Americans sat down with Pilgrims and ate together.  For some of us, it's a better holiday than all the others combined because we reflect upon just how much we have to be thankful for.

Team Rubicon in Port-Au-Prince, Haiti

But there's no reason we can't recognize and celebrate unselfish work every day.  Or any day.  Those of you who read me on Facebook may know how much I admire the veterans' volunteer organization called Team Rubicon and the work that these volunteers do during disasters.  They were early into the Philippines and into the devastation in Washington, Illinois.  They sent teams  to help with Hurricane Sandy's aftereffects. Earlier (above), they were in Haiti to help with recovery efforts.  If you'd like to learn more about their efforts or support their work, here's their story.

There are numerous other teams and organizations who do great work and could use your support, or a simple thank you, including our public servants who do their job day after day.

Wave when a fire truck or an ambulance or a police car goes by and give these folks a thumbs up -- something bright and positive to cheer them on.

Say thank you to the bus driver, knowing that profession has become a lot riskier the past couple of years.

You get the idea.

If you're out of ideas on where to donate or how to help and you live in Seattle, then consider a donation to the Seattle Times' fund for the needy, which yesterday discussed one of my favorite charities, Wellspring Family Service.

 Better yet, if you have some spare time, roll up your sleeves and volunteer.  There are so many food banks and emergency services organizations that could use your time, especially this time of year.

So take the risk out of  the beginning of a frenzied season that has become mostly about glitter and gifts.  You'll find that you always get back more than you give, even when giving thanks and helping out.