I watch very little television these days.  After all, why would I?  There’s so little time and way too much bad news being televised.  Who needs it!   Every now and than however a show comes along that sparks my curiosity.

 A new “reality” program called, ’The Secret Millionaire’ on FOX network did just that.  The show features different “self absorbed” multi-millionaires who go completely undercover as an almost destitute person living at the poverty level.  The undercover millionaire is sent to a some remote poverty stricken area of the US to live for a full week with only a few welfare level dollars in his or her pocket. They have to find a job if they are going to make it. 

Their main objective is to find some poor unfortunate individual or organization worthy of help, then wright them a check for some fairly big bucks.  The total give away is in the area of $100,000.00 or more of their own money.  Although the show itself is tainted with an obvious philanthropy-for-profit undertone (which I have no real problem with) the end result was quite inspiring. 

I found myself having to wipe more than a few tears away from my eyes as I watched the faces of the people who were so desperately in need receive a check for a substantial amount of money.

This wasn’t a handout to people who have found themselves in dire straits as a result of alcoholic or drug abuse, but rather a helping hand for people who have chosen inspite of their own circumstances to stay in their communities and give back, contribute, and help others purely out of the goodness of their own heart.

When the show ended I was left with several questions and impressions not the least of which was how important money really is in helping others less fortunate. 

As good old Abe Lincoln once said, “The best way to help the poor is by not being one.”  What a gift it would be to be able to go out into the community and give back at that level. 

Then I asked myself how I can do more to help others with the time and gifts I already have at my disposal?  As a leader you need to ask yourself that same question.

Not only that but how can we do more to inspire others to do more as well.   I’m looking for your suggestions and solutions… let me know your thoughts about the show and about giving back.

Happy Holidays.

Below is an email I received early this morning and my answer to their question.  I have also included one of my most favorite workout routines for everyone to enjoy. 

All I ask is that you leave a comment and tell me your response/results from using this program.

Hello Mr Tom Terwilliger.

I am from norway and is 48 years old. I remember you from the muscle & fitness. I always thougt you had a vere good physique.

I wonder if you could give me some general advice about training. I have trained on and off for many years and have always trained heavy(5 to 8 reps).  My shoulders and knees are now starting to ache the day after a heavy session.

Is it OK to train lighter with more reps and shorter rest? I want to continue building muscle. Should I train intensive(to failure?)

Hope you have the time to give me some general advice.

Thanks, per gunnar olsen, Norway 

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