Gratitude

Wherein Angry Shmo uncharacteristically lights a candle instead of cursing the darkness

Nov 25, 2025

We’re about to get our first snow event of the year today, so I’m in a good mood. So, here’s a positive suggestion instead of the usual rant. It is almost Thanksgiving after all, followed shortly after by Giving Tuesday.

In Timothy Snyder’s book, On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century, he suggests something we can do to make a difference:

#15: Contribute to Good Causes.
Be active in organizations, political or not, that express your own view of life. Pick a charity or two and set up autopay. Then you will have made a free choice that supports civil society and helps others to do good.

My wife and I are lucky enough to be able to contribute to different charitable organizations and non-profits. When I can, I also volunteer to set up courses for cross-country ski races at our local trails. Please consider a donation to one or more of these organizations on the following list. Or please consider offering some of your time as a volunteer. As a gee-whiz exercise for my own edification, I included Charity Navigator rankings next to the organizations on the attached list, when they have a rating.

I believe in a society that works for equal justice under the law and protects our land, air, and water. Things that I used to take for granted are under attack from short-sighted and self-interested people. Every single act that pushes back against these people is important, no matter how small. So, in this season of gratitude and giving, please think about contributing to an organization that tries to make a world like the one you want for your kids and grandkids.

CHUM (Duluth Homeless) (100%, 4-star)

Lake Superior Writers

Protect Our Winters (100%, 4-star)

Minnesota Public Radio (99%, 4-star)

Second Harvest Northland (Duluth Food Shelf) (95%, 4-star)

Superior Hiking Trail Association (100%, 4-star)

COGGS (Mountain Biking)

MACV (MN Homeless Veterans) (100%, 4-star)

Outdoor Alliance (100%, 4-star)

Duluth Cross Country Ski Club

Sportsmen for the Boundary Waters

Friends of the Boundary Waters (95%, 4-star)