Ripples v10.18: Planting Trees!

Ripples v10.18: Planting Trees!
May 5, 2008: a free weekly splash to 19,070 subscribers
from Paul & The Ripples Project

__PEBBLES _________________________________

The greatest use of life is to spend it for something that will outlast it.
-William James, submitted by Mike R., Yukon OK

The true meaning of life is to plant trees,
under whose shade you do not expect to sit.
-Nelson Henderson, submitted by Nancy Arnold, Janesville WI

__BOULDER _________________________________

The purpose of life...
is to be useful,
to be honorable,
to be compassionate,
to have it make some difference
that you have lived and lived well.
-Ralph Waldo Emerson, submitted by Terry H., Franklin WI

__PONDER _________________________________

The quotes for this week were originally written in the hopes of inspiring people to think beyond their own concerns. For some of us, they could serve as a gentle reminder that a bit more of our time, energy and money could flow out into the universe to serve the larger community. For others, the pebbles and boulder might acknowledge our current and past efforts in serving the greater good. Whether you need a boost of encouragement, a pat on the back, or a little of both; I hope this week you can plant a tree and know that somewhere in the future a grateful person will enjoy the shade!

If you need a bit more inspiration, here is a story from the April 9,2008 edition of USA Today about this year's "Caring Awards" honorees:
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2008-04-07-caring-awards_N.htm

And if you need even MORE inspiration, here is a blog started by a member of The Ripples Project who lives in Seattle:
http://www.do-greater.com/

Peace,
Paul