Winter : Building A Better World

At the heart of everything I do — personally and professionally — is a simple belief: we are all capable of building a better world.

And the best part? It isn’t a slogan. It’s my everyday work.

For more than 30 years, I’ve helped people feel valued, seen, and appreciated through thoughtful gifting. Every bow tied, every basket curated, every note written is an act of acknowledgment — a way of saying, “You matter.”

But building a better world extends far beyond the gift itself. It starts with how we treat people — regardless of title, background, or role. The small, everyday gestures… a smile, patience, kindness, compassion… these are the threads that strengthen our community.

Rotary: A Natural Extension of My Purpose

My mission continues through my 20 years with the Rotary Club of Vancouver. Rotary became a natural pull early in my career — a place where service, integrity, and connection are woven into every project. Whether supporting youth scholarships, packing containers with essentials for developing countries, or contributing to the global effort to End Polio, Rotary reminds me daily that collective kindness transforms lives.

I’m deeply active in my club and find tremendous fulfillment in service. I enjoy my role as Sergeant-at-Arms and the privilege of welcoming visiting Rotarians from around the world. I am especially proud of the scholarships our club provides to students at Gladstone Secondary School. Some of their stories are truly heart-wrenching — and knowing we can help move their education forward feels like a genuine contribution toward a better world. I also attend monthly meetings of the Rotaract Club of Vancouver Young Professionals. Their energy, creativity, and commitment inspire me every time.

Why More Corporations Should Encourage Rotary Membership

Rotary provides business owners, leaders and employees with opportunities to:

· Grow through meaningful leadership experiences

· Connect with a global network rooted in service

· Strengthen workplace culture through a shared values framework — the Rotary Four-Way Test

Rotary’s Four-Way Test

1. Is it the TRUTH? — Encourages honesty and transparency

2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?

3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?

4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

These principles are timeless — and powerful guides for any organization, especially today.

5 Ways to Help Build a Better World This Holiday Season

1. Reach out to a seniors’ home

Many seniors spend the holidays without visitors. A handwritten card, a small treat, or even a short visit can help someone feel remembered and valued.

2. Offer kindness to someone in your daily path

Think of the barista who knows your order, the security guard in your building, or the delivery drivers working nonstop. A sincere thank-you or a small gesture can brighten someone’s entire day.

3. Support a local charity or community program

Whether it’s Rotary’s End Polio initiative, a food bank drive, or providing essentials to families in need, your contribution — big or small — strengthens our shared community.

4. Acknowledge someone at work who may not always be seen

Send a note to a colleague, admin team member, cleaner, or someone behind the scenes. Recognition is powerful, and thoughtful leadership starts with noticing those who are often overlooked.

5. Share your time or expertise

Mentor a young person, volunteer for a holiday initiative, or attend a community event. Generosity isn’t always financial. Sometimes the greatest gift is simply showing up.

A Personal Practice That Grounds My Week

For the past three years, I’ve attended Richard Hoy’s leadership calls every Wednesday from 8:00–9:00am. His Aspiration Calls set the tone for my day and strengthen my leadership practice. This is not a typical get-well coaching session.

Richard, the Principal of Richard Hoy Consulting for the last 25 years and has a track record of leading teams to significant success and helping individuals unlock their potential.

A Thought-Provoking Read on Gratitude

We could all use a little more gratitude this season. 

Terry Small’s Brain Bulletin 153 (Terry Small “The Brain Guy” B.Ed., M.A., is a master teacher and Canada's leading learning skills specialist. He is the author of the Brain Bulletin)

Do You Know Someone Who Is Really Good at This? It is a powerful reminder that our brains wire themselves for whatever we practice — including complaining. Negativity becomes easier the more we do it. Chronic complaining elevates cortisol, impacts health, and shapes our mindset.

But there’s good news: neuroplasticity works both ways.

As Maya Angelou said,

“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change the way you think about it. Don’t complain.”

The antidote? Gratitude. Your brain gets good at what it repeatedly does.

Thanks for reading. As Terry always says, You are a genius!

From our team to yours — wishing you a season filled with connection, compassion, and the joy of making someone’s world a little brighter.