I love the whole idea of 29 Gifts. And what I love about 29 Gifts – the book – is that it’s naturally inspiring. It’s not at all preachy or new-agey or theoretical. It’s simple and practical and obviously came from a real place in you. I think many readers will relate to your feelings and to the fact that when your friend — spiritual healer Mbali Creazzo — suggested the idea to you, you were wary and dismissive. What finally convinced you to change your mind?
I was desperate. I tried everything recommended by doctors and was still suffering from severe depression, chronic pain and other debilitating MS symptoms. One night when I could not sleep I grabbed my journal to write, and opened it straight to the page where I had written down Mbali’s “prescription.” I decided to try it because I was desperate for things to change.
What was the hardest part about giving a gift a day? You’ve been doing this for a long time now – has that changed over time? Has it gotten easier or more difficult to keep it up?
At first, remembering to give the gift each day was challenging. I also struggled with the urge to plan everything in advance. Once I settled into the practice, it became something I looked forward to each day. Now, more than three years later, I still give daily and it still lifts my spirits.
What’s surprised you most about giving a gift a day?
I was shocked at how quickly things shifted in my life. By day 14 I was walking on my own without my cane and my outlook on life was hopeful and positive.
What’s been the most rewarding part of this?
An unexpected gift has been the opportunity to travel around the U.S. speaking at MS Society fundraisers and other community events. It has been a joy to meet thousands of others living with MS and to use my strengths and talents to make a difference.
What’s been the biggest change in your life since you started this?
My ability to receive has expanded with each gift. Today I am working on the 29 Gifts film and my second book. I never really pictured a life that is fueled by art, but I am living it today thanks to all the people who have received 29 Gifts so generously.
Were you surprised at how quickly people joined when you launched the website?
The site started out with just me and some of my friends, but one day in the first two months I woke up to find 200 new members I did not know. Friends told friends who told friends and today 29Gifts.org is a global goodwill movement with more than 14,000 members in 42 countries. I am grateful the site and book speak to people and move them to take action to improve their lives.
How are you feeling physically these days?
I live with MS, like 2,000,000 others in the world, so I have my ups and downs. Overall, I remain healthy and happy, and today I can cope with the daily challenges MS presents.
I am starting the Challenge on March 1 with some of our readers, who have also been inspired by you. Any advice? I totally relate to your original desire to map out all 29 gifts ahead of time and have had to stop myself from doing that!
Keep your giving simple. We often forget that the most impactful gifts cost us only time and imagination. One suggestion from Mbali is to make a list of five things you are grateful for each morning and find a creative way to share one with others.
You have continued your own giving cycle every month since you started the 29-Day Giving Challenge in 2008. Has this become a natural part of your life now?
I go through each day open to opportunities to be of service to others and I say YES as often as I can. I have times where I have to start my cycles over with Day 1 because I forget. This practice is about progress, not perfection.
What happens on days 30 and 31 of the month?
It is good to take a couple days for reflection between each cycle. If you start your giving the first of each month, the 30th and 31st can be devoted to appreciation and gratitude.
Read our interview with Mbali Creazzo here.
I love that the giving has become a natural part of her life, because that’s what makes her and the challenge, so authentic. I’ve also had to restrain myself from mapping out all the giving ahead of time! I’m joining you tomorrow and considering it the official first day of my conscious and humble mission to do more good, one simple little act at a time.