The Happy Bucks

A few weeks ago, I was the guest at the Local Kiwanis club.

A portion of their meeting consisted of the most delightful thing: They call it their "Happy Bucks," and it's a time when members get to stand and give a few dollars in honor of something that made them happy that week. What a hoot! Many of the dollars were given in relation to football games, (and NFL cheerleaders) and the whoops and hollars seemed to grow with each gift. Two of the men were celebrating wedding anniversaries that week. One man gave forty bucks for forty great years, while his friend, who was a little less prepared, gave one dollar and sheepishly promised an IOU. Cheers!

Over a dozen people donated Happy Bucks that night. My host leaned over and explained to me that at the end of the year they give the money to a charity. I figured that was a lot of money over a year of weekly meetings. By the time they were finished giving, my cheeks hurt from laughing so hard. What a great approach to giving!

Giving in response to gratitude is one of the keys to prosperity, especially when it's done with great joy! This morning on the way to school, I launched an impromptu "gratitude party" in the car. I was amused at all the happy ideas that poured from my kids' mouths. They were interrupting each other with gratitude. As we drove, the happiness grew. Their day was off to a good start.

Did I give any money away in response to such thankfulness? Of course! But money is not the only thing you can give. I encourage you to stop and count your blessings today, and as you do, just ask yourself, "What could I give in response to this?" It is a fun way to live.

2 Corinthians 9:7
...for God loves a cheerful giver.