What would happen if you made your life about giving? Elton John has. Whether he's performing his legendary music for the world to adore, or providing vital education and care to those living with HIV/AIDS through the Elton John AIDS Foundation (EJAF), his life has become a testament to the significance of a kind heart.
Recently, I had the honor of attending Elton John's Oscar party which, over the past 24 years, has been a vehicle for this pioneer of "giving back in Hollywood," to raise more than 225 million dollars in support of groundbreaking HIV/AIDS programs in 55 countries around the globe. Alongside his husband, David Furnish, he welcomed a plethora of charitable stars, among them: Andie MacDowell, Matthew Morrison, Russell Simmons, Steven Tyler, Mariah Carey, Hillary Swank, and Tim Allen.
In true "Elton John fashion," he wowed the crowd by playing several of his greatest hits with a vibrant energy reminiscent of the very first time we ever heard them. And as an added bonus, he delighted the room with songs from his new CD, "Wonderful Crazy Night," which he signed and gifted to each person in attendance. Through donations and proceeds from auction items, (including the mismatched, custom-made, Gucci wedges Lady Gaga wore during her rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" at the Super Bowl), the consummate host raised a reported 6.2 million dollars for EJAF.
In his elegant way of being, Elton John exemplifies the idea that when one is compassionate, everybody feels it and wants to be a part of it. He is one of the great role models of our time, and proves that how we live our lives has a long-lasting impact on the world-at-large. His open heart and love for humanity has made, and continues to make, the planet we all share a better place. Elton has made being selfless... cool! Not only has he made it cool, but he has shown that it can come with glitz and glamor and fun! He is living proof that pure joy is a direct result of helping others unselfishly.
Granted, Elton has a wide platform upon which to spread good, due to his fame and hundreds of celebrity friends who support his cause, but each of us has an equal ability to affect positive change in our own way. We can all inspire. We can all make a difference. You don't have to be famous. He simply demonstrates what is possible when we focus on something greater than ourselves and it comes from the heart.
Like the "Rocket Man," himself, we should all have the courage to live our own truth and express ourselves with love and optimism. Because when you make your life about giving, you can be a role model for others and change the world. Whenever a person contributes to the healing of humanity, the effects go far beyond the good it does in their lifetime. In fact, they leave a great legacy that encourages and inspires actions of kindness, love, and peace in others for generations to come. It is plain to see that through Elton John's passion for making music and giving back to those in need, he continues to create quite a legacy, indeed.