As some of you might know I am a Laureus Sport for Good South Africa ambassador. Laureus South Africa turned twenty years old this year and we spent some time at Sun City to reflect on the last twenty years and what has been achieved. Laureus Sport for Good was founded by Johan Rupert and Nelson Mandela as patrons launched the Foundation with these famous words.
“ Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way little else does. It speaks to youth in a language that they understand.”
The Laureus Sport for Good foundation supports 30 program’s that change kids’ lives daily. They have raised in excess of R80 million in 20 years. Laureus operates in 35 different countries with the South African branch at the forefront. Some of my favorite programs are Fight with Insight based in Hillbrow, Waves for Change based in Muizenberg and Justice Desk based in Cape Town. So why am I telling you about charities and programs that use sport to change peoples lives?
Well, the reason I am telling you is because while I was attending The Laureus Sport for Good conference and celebration I realized I don’t get out and give enough of my time to the less privileged in our communities. For us to be able to be grateful for what we have we need to get out and reach out to the vulnerable members of our society.
What I also realized is that if you keep reading the news you will never be able to have a positive outlook on our country and its beautiful people. Two full days with my Laureus family and I was rejuvenated and grateful. Grateful for what I have but also grateful for some incredible people that sacrifice their entire lives to help others that are less privileged. You see, good news doesn’t sell Newspapers and good news doesn’t attract people to their phones. What have you done this year and what are you going to do in the festive season that will make a difference in other people’s lives?
We always see Christmas as a time of receiving gifts and spoiling our close family members, but what about the poor communities? What do they have to celebrate? If you have had a great year and you feel like giving of your time or money, then go online and search for The Laureus Sport for Good Foundation. Maybe your kids like surfing and they want to go to Muizenberg then check out Waves for Change and see where you can help. I went to Sun City and I had to take time away from my work and family and when I got back I realized that I had received a lot more that I had given. Every single time I think I am giving to Laureus then I come back more rejuvenated and motivated than ever before. Let’s teach our children that Christmas is not just about receiving but it is also about giving. Giving of your time, resources and your love for your fellow citizens.
Winston Churchill Said:
“ From what we get we make a living, what we give however makes a life”
Let’s be grateful and go out and give this festive season.