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Anne Libby

Valeria, I had an "issue" with Acts of Kindness Day, precisely because I thought, what is the purpose of me talking about me?

I love how you've turned this around. And I'm inspired to learn more about Bill.

Be well, stay warm, and have a great week.

Lauren Vargas

Brilliant read on a Monday morning. This book sounds like an excellent holiday read between classes.

Sounds cheesy, but I "passed the cheer" by paying for the person behind me in Starbucks drive-thru this morning. It's the little things that can make a person's day.

IG

I think the awesome thing about the story here is how people like Bill Strickland act like this EVERY DAY. Acts of Kindness is their foundation, their center, not just a single special day of the year.

I think when you look at most of the world of business and politics (the two big sustainers of infrastructure for much of life), you don't see what I think are key qualities:

INTEGRITY

HUMILITY

GENEROSITY

Some people choose to seek influence and power for themselves only. Others, they seek influence and power in order to better serve others. I strive for the latter, and admire those who set out to use their dream to help others realize their dream.

Ignacio

Valeria Maltoni

@Anne -- I know I'm not that interesting ;-) The work they are doing at Manchester Craftsman's Guild is amazing. I can't wait to read the book.

@Lauren -- when Meredith reached out to me, she did not know I met Bill. I am a strong believer that we're given gifts and opportunities to use them. A kind gesture is a kind gesture, there is no monopoly on how big it needs to be. It is indeed the little things.

@Ignacio -- that was a very passionate comment. Thank you. It's musical in its phrasing, can you see it? Bill has a giving habit, it's natural to him. It will be really good to spend some time with his words, in his world.

Richard Becker

I am so very glad to see you signed on to Bloggers Unite, Valeria.

I really love the post. We're here to give to life, not take from it.

Thank you for giving us a glimpse into Bill Strickland's thoughts. He's right of course.

All my best,
Rich

Carr Hagerman

I love Bill Strickland! I had an opportunity to hear him speak to the Master's Forum here in Minneapolis, and his words have stuck with me.

I think what makes Bill such a fresh voice is his utter lack of pretense. Power and influence isn't something he seeks or cultivates but it is a byproduct of his commitment. He generates generous natural energy with others and as a result great things come to him, naturally.

The greatest leaders, it seems to me, find a way of connecting passion to purpose in a way that makes the world a bigger, better place. When that connection is made, there is very little that can stop the momentum which is fueled by the natural energy of human creativity, passion and ingenuity.

I'm glad you've given Bill some visibility, he's the real thing. It goes to show that in order to change the world we actually have to do something by connecting our energies in concert with other people. It's hard work, and there is no secret for accomplishing such great things. Fortunately, Bill Strickland didn't read any books about "secrets" for changing the world, he just followed his heart and did something. After all, it is that simple.

Valeria Maltoni

@Rich -- I am glad I saw that on your blog and found out more about the initiative.

@Carr -- yup, when I met him, he was interacting with people very casually. "He generates generous natural energy with others and as a result great things come to him, naturally." Great leaders also inspire that kind of activism and passion in you just by proximity. You said it so well.

Toby

I heard Bill Strickland speak last year and was on the edge of my seat. Not only was he an inspiring speaker but the way he approached the development of the Manchester Craftsmen's Guild holds many lessons for not for profits and for profits. I'm sure the book will be a wonderful read. Great choice for an Acts of Kindness Award Valeria!

Valeria Maltoni

The thing that most impressed me about the person is the total immersion in the moment and the acceptance that where we are in the conversation is the right place. I was glad Meredith reminded me of him and his story.

I've read the first part of the book on my way over to Italy -- it was wonderful company and really got me in the holiday spirit.

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