Life is a mix of events and people whose paths cross ours at certain points. Some of these events and people lead to exceptional experiences that leave lasting influences on the course of our future. Some of the people we get to know become valuable inspirations that may change our lives. The reflections we observe from their personalities and characters teach us who we want to be. Their passion to change the world and serve makes them unique examples for us to follow. These inspirational experiences are sacred, and must be appreciated, respected, recognized and honored.

In my journey of life, I was honored to have the privilege of meeting a man with a heart as big as oceans. The greatest lesson I learned from him was that in order to serve, one must first be free from themselves; putting others before them. To serve and make a change, small steps can lead to greater achievements. This great man’s name was Ron Shutt who passed away recently. His dream was to help the elderly people who lived in the same apartment building that he lived by proposing a plan that would allow young students of psychology and similar majors to spend time with those elderly people who live alone. In his perspective, this would help the students gain valuable experiences, that boost their future careers, while providing the elderly with the companionship of someone to talk to and not feeling lonely. He was willing to go as far as it took to make his dream come true. Sadly, though, his life was not long enough.

In admiration for Ron’s big heart and genuine passion to make a change, I have been inspired to bring his dream to reality. I am not sure where to begin the process from yet, but I am willing to start doing research on that. For the time being, in honor of his great character, I would like to do a thing that I have been thinking about for quite a while. While we are privileged with many bounties of life, there are regions in the world where people don’t have access to life’s basic needs; such as clean water. Lately, I have been looking for ways to participate in causes that support activities aiming to improve lives of the people in those regions. So, I have decided to start a fundraiser titled “In Memory of Ron Shutt” and ask my friends to appreciate and honor a great man’s desire to serve by donating as much as they can to a support bringing clean water to the people who need it. This fundraiser is made possible through water.org.

Many cordial appreciations for your donations! May Ron’s spirit be in peace!