Drawings, Winners, and Changing the World

By Nichole Giles

Last week, I asked my readers what they would do to help change the world. I love all the thoughtful comments, and am sad that I only have one prize to give away. The drawing was done by random generator—lest any of you think I believe you won’t be able to change the world exactly the way you hope.

I believe you all have the power to do exactly what you’ve said. In case you didn’t read the comment threads, here are some great examples of what we can do daily:

“Live a good, honest life and follow the promptings Heavenly Father sends my way…I’ll help many people, most importantly my family. And from there begins the ripple effect…” ~ Danyelle

“I’ve always tried to say a nice thing to everyone I meet, but of course, that’s being used. If I could write a scene in a book that touched hearts, and if that book was read by everyone, it would change hearts and make the world a better place.” ~ Keith

“This year I’ve decided to be happy. There’s so much to be unhappy about, that it would be easy to frown and be upset. You can either choose to laugh or choose to cry. And I choose to laugh.” ~ Elana

“I hope to simply love people, give them the benefit of the doubt, assume the best, and emphasize the positive.” ~ James and Lindsay Lattin

“I’m trying to change the world right around me by teaching my children.” ~ Jenn

“I want to teach my children a love of reading. I know being taught early to love books has changed my life for the better, so I can only hope my kids inherit that as well.” ~ Jason, Alicia, and Addie

“I’m trying to change the world by improving myself so I can give my best self to others. In this way I hope to be a better mother, wife, neighbor, friend, sister, daughter, and stranger. And, therefore, being an influence for good.” ~ The Fox’s

Thanks everyone for your thoughtful comments and suggestions. As for me, I believe I can affect the world by serving others. Everyone needs help in one way or another now and then, and I believe it’s good karma to jump in and offer assistance. Very often it is the small things we do for which we are most appreciated, loved, and remembered.

And now the big announcement. I'm giving away an autographed copy of The A-MAZE-ing Book of Mormon by Arie Van Degraaff (who is a GUY, despite my late-night-typing-finger-blunder) to all those who commented on my changing the world post. And the winner is…(drum roll please)

Keith Fisher

Cheer, dance, clap, clap, clap, clap, clap, whistle, clap, cheer. Yahoo, Keith!

I’d instruct you to send me your mailing address so I could get this awesome maze book in the mail, except I’m pretty sure I’ll be seeing you before I’ll see the guy at the post office anyway. Plus, I already have your address. Enjoy!

For those people who are dying to get their hands on this book, you can find it at your local bookstore, or click here to buy it online.

*Don’t forget to scroll down and leave a comment on my review of Illuminations of the Heart by Joyce DiPastena. Each time you comment, you’re entered into the drawing for an autographed copy or one of three gift cards. This is a great opportunity, so don’t miss out!

Until next time, write on!

Nichole