The United Kingdom recently lost its longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II. At 96, she lived an amazingly rich life, having met with 13 U.S. presidents over seven decades. And while a force of power on the grandest of scales, it is these words of wisdom shared in her 2019 Christmas broadcast that speak to me most:
“It’s worth remembering that it is often the small steps, not the giant leaps, that bring about the most lasting change.”
Our November Giving Issue is always one of my favorites, and I am beyond proud to share this year’s bountiful read. To begin, bestselling author James Patterson is our cover story. Most people know him as the literary genius who has penned countless books, but in “Legacy Of A Legend” (page 74) he chats with us about a lesson he learned early in his humble upbringing: the importance of giving back.
On that same note, “The Benefits Of Giving” (page 80) takes a deep dive into the healing properties, for both spirit and mind, of helping others.
I’ve always found music to have a healing and restorative property, which is why I’m so excited to showcase the great cellist Hauser in our story “Classic Crossover” (page 86). See how this incredible musician has been filling lives with the joy of music over the years.
And since we cannot overlook Thanksgiving this month, we have a fascinating piece about “A Global Thanks” (page 92) exploring unique holidays in all corners of the globe that center around giving thanks. Can you name the place over 7,000 miles away that celebrates our Thanksgiving holiday? No worries, in this feature you’ll learn that and much more!
Lastly, check out our listings of this season’s hottest charity galas and luncheons (page 154) — one of my favorites — and a prime example of all the wonderful opportunities for philanthropy in South Florida.
Even though our leaves do not change colors and our weather shifts from humid to slightly less humid, it’s a special time to stop, reflect, embrace friends and family, and, just like the Queen encouraged, take even the smallest steps to make the world a better place.
To all celebrating, I wish you an incredibly Happy Thanksgiving. This year, no matter what, I think we can agree that we all have something to be grateful for. I know I do. Let’s count our blessings and focus on the positives please.
All the best,
Linda L. Behmoiras
linda@bocaratonobserver.com