HAVE A HEART; SAVE A HEART

Is it a coincidence that during our economic crisis, unselfish acts of kindness seem to be more prevalent? Psychological studies have shown us through the years that a common adversary (deep recession) can function to bind us together and foster the empathic behavior that defines “manners”. Last weekend, altruism and compassion ran rampant at the 11th annual Greater Washington Heart Ball.

Our host, Hilary Bruggen Fordwich, Strelmark CEO, assembled a remarkable table of philanthropic community leaders. One such benevolent innovator, American Airlines’ Rick Cutrera, has a long history of leading with his heart, contributing to causes ranging from autism to heart disease. Global leaders such as Hilary and Rick appear to be accelerating their recessionary giving, understanding that to save a heart, you must spread your heart and lead with manners, compassion, and kindness.

KINDNESS AND CHEVYS ARE THE NEW COOL

What the heck do kindness and manners have to do with Chevrolets, or Impalas to be exact? Ask my friend, Bob Parsons of GoDaddy.com. After expounding on the virtues of his shiny new black on black V8 Chevrolet Impala SS, I finally asked the obvious, “Why Impala?” Without hesitation, he replied, “because it’s the new cool, baby.”

Anyone who knows Bob knows not to question his evaluation of trends. Having just asked me to contribute a weekly "etiquette" audio-blog to his website and vlog, I’m inferring that Bob feels the same way about manners as he does about his fresh new Impala. And, since having “manners” is really about being kind and caring about the comfort of others, I must conclude that both kindness and Impalas are the new cool (baby).