Every three months, I do so something rather atypical for struggling, indie musicians, I give away a lot of money.

Now I don't do so lightly. It's not like I can afford to dig into my pockets and pull out a ton of cash. I'm still struggling to make ends meat like the next musician. However, I created a way to do so without hurting my own pocketbook, I release compilations CDs that benefit non-profits. Yup! By framing it as "this is their money", I'm not losing any. Instead, I have the pleasure of giving away a hefty sum of money several times a year.

Last Quarter, I made a nice-sized donation to the Arkansas Celtic Music Society. What was interesting to me about it was the response. I've given away thousands of dollars to some really good non-profits, but this one was different. From a few of the Celtic non-profits, I have received nothing in return. It's not like I'm looking for anything special. But that is what made this donation so special. This was the first organization that I received a thank you note from, I think, every member of their Board! And today from a Celtic group out of Little Rock.

That really got me thinking.

Every time, I get a donation from someone through my podcasts or website, I try to send send a thank you. Sometimes, I don't even know what to say, so it's short. But I thank you anyway. Like Diane in Louisiana, who regularly makes donations to support mine and The Bards music. It blows me away when people like Thomas M., William A., Jennifer B., Christopher C., Miranda V., Albert M, Pawel P., and Glenn W. all donate a few bucks to help me continue my trade. The Arkansas Celtic Music Society kinda helped me to see just how important it is to say thank you.

Just imagine how you'd feel if you had a personal email or phone call from your local public radio station, an environmental non-profit, or even your local church.

As I said, it's not easy to do. But I so very much appreciate it more than not even recognition of receipt of my donation. It makes me feel good to give, glad to give. And it makes me realize just how important it is for me to give thanks and to continue releasing compilation CDs that benefit non-profit organizations.

If you'd like to find out more about these compilations, check out my Celtic Music CD Store for albums like The Secret World of Celtic Rock, Victims of Irish Music, Coventina's Well, and Renaissance Festival Podcast Compilation that give away 10-100% of the profits to Celtic or Renaissance festival non-profit organizations.