Charity is a way of life…

Quick, what's your favorite charity? Are you passionate about literacy, animals, the homeless? Perhaps your heart is so big, you care about all of these causes and many more.

Some people equate charity with writing a check and hoping the chosen organization uses it in the right way, but charity isn't just a once-per-year tax write-off… it can be a daily way of life.

People like to say the grass is always greener in someone else's yard, but if you come in for a closer look, you may notice an infestation in the garden or a lawn that badly needs mown.

That's the thing about the human condition. We are all blessed and we are all burdened in our own ways.

Just because someone has a bigger home or drives a nicer car than you do, doesn't mean that they aren't also less fortunate. Riches are made up of so much more than just money.

Which means giving money isn't the only way you can be charitable. Offer a smile or kind words, put in time, use your voice to speak for those who are having a hard time being heard…

Be charitable every day of the year even if it's in a small way.

It makes a difference, and it makes our world a much nicer place to live.

I am passionate about the golden rule of treating others the way you would like to be treated. There are many great organizations out there that fight for human rights, civil rights, animal rights, and all are worthy of attention.

But you can also lend an ear, a shoulder, a spare moment of your time to help make someone's day a bit brighter.

We are all living this life side by side, which kind of makes us one big family. Shouldn't we be happy?