“The hand that gives gathers” is a proverb conveying the idea of reciprocity and abundance through generosity. It suggests that by giving selflessly, one often receives in return, whether it be in material form, goodwill, or blessings. This principle can be understood both in practical terms—like building relationships and fostering goodwill—and in a more spiritual or philosophical sense, where giving leads to a more fulfilling and enriched life. It emphasizes the cycle of giving and receiving, implying that generosity brings its own rewards.
When I started at St Johnsbury Academy and wanted to change the culture, we were looking for ways to give back to our community. We chose to participate in a Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Over a decade ago, we walked in our game jerseys alongside dozens of family members of those afflicted with this horrible disease. Our participation motivated others to join. Now, we walk alongside hundreds of other athletes representing all of our school’s Fall teams, our rival school’s teams and local youth teams. After registering for this year’s walk on 22 October, I received the following email from the Chair of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s.
Hi Rich,
My heartfelt thanks for registering the SJA Football Team for our 2024 NEK Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Your commitment to this event is nothing less than incredible. I hope you know how much it means to all of us involved in organizing the Walk to have your team there. It creates such a meaningful atmosphere and it truly sets the NEK Walk apart from all other Walks in the country.
Warm regards,
Nancy Poulos
NEK Walk to End ALZ Chair
Please allow me to emphasize, that we do not give with the intent to gather. There’s nothing transactional about our choice… But like a ripple across a lake, we are happy to spread goodness across the community, create ever-expanding goodwill, and see blessings multiplied in ways benefitting us all.
As coaches, we have a fleeting opportunity to create a lasting impact on our student-athletes. We seek to build teams, win games, and cultivate quality students who someday will give back to the community. In doing so we must set the example, and lead them to be more than they thought they ever could be, both on and off the field.
Coach Rich Alercio is available to discuss coaching philosophy, X’s & O’s, or teach his O-Line “techniques in the trenches.” Contact Coach at richalercio@gmail.com and share http://www.olineskills.com with your colleagues and friends. Thanks for supporting this blog and joining our conversations, and as always, thanks for your time!
O Line Skills 