You may have heard about the challenge to billionaires that Warren Buffet started back in June; yesterday The Giving Pledge added its 40th billionaire to a roster of individuals and families who have publicaly made a moral commitment to give away the majority of their wealth.

You'd probably agree that this is as it should be, and it's great news. But this new trend has gotten me thinking lately....what does it mean for the rest of us, people who will never get a call from Mr. Buffet or Bill Gates to add our names to the billionaires' pledge?

If there's one thought I'd like put out in the universe, in response to this high-dollar movement, it would be this:

Let us remember that we all have just as important a role to play as the billionaires -- because every gift, no matter the size or what it looks like, is a vital piece of each community's fabric.

So, what -- does that mean I'm saying those of you donating school supplies for Henderson County students are making as important a gesture as George Lucas' pledge? That High Point literacy tutors are giving something as valuable as Diane von Furstenberg's extreme wealth? That the friends rallying to support a cancer-stricken comrade in Clinton are going to have as meaningful an impact as David Rockefeller's philanthropy?

You bet that's what I'm saying.

Philanthropy, or giving, is something our communities depend on from all of us -- it's a movement we're each a part of, simply because we are a part of the community. So when you give of yourself -- whether it's time, talent or treasure -- remember that you really are making a difference, and your efforts truly matter! When the fabric of North Carolina's communities gets stronger, cleaner and more beautiful, it's because of these efforts. It's because you give.

Besides, you never really know just how much your giving can mean. I think Frederick Buechner said it best, in my favorite quote of all time:

“The life I touch for good or ill will touch another life, and that in turn another, until who knows where the trembling stops or in what far place my touch will be felt."

Thank you, people of North Carolina, for giving back to your communities in all kinds of ways -- our state is growing stronger and healthier even as I write, because of you.