My wife's heart is for the elderly. She has her own cleaning business and often finds herself spending extra time with customers that are in their late eighties or nineties. This time includes extra cleaning, sharing a cup of coffee and conversation, or playing a mean game of dominoes.

The end of day discussion includes how she left later than planned and endured a bit heavier traffic because of an opportunity to serve became evident. She has a keen eye for things that need to get done and is willing to do the heavy lifting to make it happen.

This world includes much suffering. The statistics are staggering for every cause; human trafficking, wars, famine, starvation, animal cruelty, drug abuse, political fighting, cancer, and the list goes on. If the statistic remains the massive number, it is too big to imagine the real cost, and too hard to see how to make a difference. However, to connect the dots and see a particular face and know precisely how you can intercede to make a difference makes action tangible.

Kristin Sheffer (@simplysheffer) rallied her tribe to send items for distribution to the those affected by the earthquake in Haiti. She uses her influence to care for orphans and those living on the edge in this island country.

What are your causes?

If the commercial for the Humane Society comes on TV and shows the sad puppy eyes; do you call to set up your volunteer time? When the political unrest in your homeland rises to a fever pitch, are you calling the relatives with every free moment and sending any extra cash?

What causes play your heartstrings?

We must celebrate the desire to ease a burden or solve these problems since it puts your compassionate humanity on full display. We are not here to be cold-hearted spectators of suffering. We have our influence, status, wealth, and breath to be utilized to help others.

Going Further: What are the causes you regularly support? How have the causes changed over time? Why have you shifted your support? What are the critical factors that you use to determine your level of aid? What are you currently supporting that would have surprised your younger self?