I think it began for me about 30 (sweet Jesus!) years ago. It was Christmas morning and dad (Santa) saved his pennies (or whatever our parents did to save money back then) and bought mom a microwave! Looking back on it through today's hyper-sensitive lens, it sounds sexist and patronizing. I promise you it was the polar opposite. The reaction, including giggles and tears of joy, has forever fueled my penchant for acts of service combined with the element of surprise. I simply love doing things for friends and family without them knowing and in order to provide a service I know they'll appreciate. From simple mowing of the lawn and clearing the snow off a car to sanding and restaining the deck, the joy I get from the deed feels almost selfish!
As I was digging into the article this week, I came across a slew of mi...