Wednesday, February 5, 2014

the birthday project.

How do you explain someone like Dad? He was complex and certainly not perfect - but if you were lucky enough to know him, you know that he lived life differently. He didn't care to impress people. He just cared FOR people. Here on earth, he saw things through a different lens - I believe through a more authentic and Christ-like lens than most of us could ever dream. Dad found ways to reach out to those in need on a daily basis. I could recount a hundred memories of delayed road trips because we were pulled over helping a car on the side of the road and extended outings because he ran into someone at the coffee shop who just needed a patient ear...His was a beautiful life and I can only pray that I inherit even just a tiny bit of his unselfish and transformative love.


A few years ago, I read about THE BIRTHDAY PROJECT & I was so impressed by the idea of celebrating your birthday by giving back to others instead of making the day all about you. So, as Dad's birthday approaches, I can't think of a more appropriate way to celebrate his 64th birthday than by completing 64 random acts of kindness. What an honor to spend his day spreading around some of selfless love that made his life so rich. I've recruited my Mom and Sister to do this as well & I can just imagine Dad's big ol' mustache smile as he watches "his girls" honor him in this way.



And here's where YOU come in. I don't want the kindness to stop with just the 3 of us. This little project is about making the world a better place because I know that is what would make Dad the happiest. Won't you help me? On March 5th, in honor of my Dad, could you take just a moment at home, at work, at school...to do something intentionally kind for another person? It could be something so simple - pay for the order behind you in the drive through, write a quick note thanking a co-worker, make your kids' favorite breakfast and tell them you love them...there are so many little ways to spread kindness. I can't tell you how much it would mean to us if there was even just the smallest positive impact made on this very important day.

Please join us and contribute in whatever way you feel comfortable. By sharing your heart, you can help us heal ours...and hopefully some broken hearts in the communities we live in. I would LOVE to hear from you if you would like to share a memory of Dad's kindness. I would love to hear how you plan to spread some kindness on March 5th. I would love for you to share this idea with your family, friends and co-workers. Let's see how big of an impact little acts of kindness can really have.

With love and gratitude,
Kerith

4 comments:

  1. I recall your dad with great fondness. I can tell you he truly loved your mom and appreciated what she did as a troop leader and made sure to let all of us know it. I will be doing something nice for someone on March the 5th and I will try to remember to do it every month. Great job Kerith, your dad is smilin' on you for sure.

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  2. Andy and I have alot of fond memories in the short time we had the honor and privilege of knowing your Dad. But I think the one that gave us all such joy and laughter was at Sara and Joe's wedding. If you remember little Aiden was sick that day, lost a shoe, and in the midst of taking family pictures your Dad was in the back of the church jumping up and down, waving his arms and making smiley faces at Aiden to make him laugh for the camera. Well look at those awesome pictures and you will see the result of his efforts. I think the photo we love the most is the close up shot of Joe, Sara and Aiden. What a happy family photo and we can thank your Dad for that. One other memory that makes us smile is when we did a voice recorded book as grandparents for Aiden at Christmas time. I'm sure hearing his voice will forever bring you to tears but will also help you treasure his presence. We laughed since we had many do overs:) We miss him but we know he is with us and we will see him again. Andy and I have Adoration in the chapel at church on Wednesday and we plan to dedicate our hour of prayer for all the intentions of your Dad's heart and for those who are in most need of God's love and mercy. Based on your remarks he had a heart for those in need, so that is what we will pray for and we will lift up your entire family. God Bless you and thanks for allowing us to be a part of this celebration. Andy and Linda Busti

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  3. In honor of your dad today on his birthday, we made and are about to deliver lunches to the homeless people in the nearby areas. Your dad was always a man looking to serve the needs of others and find ways to bring joy. It is our hope, that we can follow his example. Love you guys & praying for your healing! The Earnests

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  4. We believe that your dad would know this better today then ever before but our gift is to offer our rosary for those who do not know the love of God on his behalf. In a world that is hurting your dad shared his faith so that others would come to know the love of God. This is what our Lady of Medjugorje has asked us to pray for since so many do not know her Son. Everytime we look at the grandchildren that we share we make an extra effort to do what we can to love them in his absence knowing how much he would have enjoyed their presence even though we know he is with us. Love and miss you Manuel!

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