Susan's Blog » Manners and charity, the stress antidote

The stress of enduring these harsh economic times makes me worry about the future of charitable giving. So many of us seem to be turning inward as we strive to rebalance our lives and our checkbooks. Not so for an amazing group of employees from SRA International , a company “dedicated to solving complex problems of global significance for their clients in national security, civil government, and global health.” To say they exemplify Global Manners is an understatement. Last night I attended the SRA Talent Show and was wowed not only by the globally diverse artistry, but also by the community spirit, kindness, and charitable generosity.

In my personal and work life, I enthusiastically expound on how “manners” are mostly about kindness, tolerance, and compassion. We can’t afford to ignore this in our global environment. But, our mannerly resolve may be taxed during these stressful times and the SRA Talent Show reminded me that music, laughter, charity, and friendship replenishes our soul. The mostly employee talent included a richly sensual Kathak Fusion: Nrityaki Dance of India, a sonorous gospel rendition of “Steal Away” sung by the Washington Plaza Baptist Church choir, a handmade hourglass shaped mountain dulcimer played by Ed Gaunt (who knew the traditional pick was a feather?), a classical woodwind performance by the Washington Sinfonietta Chamber Players, an Armed Forces Medley by the West Point Alumni Glee Club, and a raucous rendition of “One Short Day” from Wicked with a deliciously green skinned Tina Acker-Walsh channeling Idina Menzel.

You see, true to their corporate values, these SRA employees conceived of a talent show as a “fun way to celebrate what a special place SRA is” and to live up to their collective commitment to give back to their communities. This first time event raised over $13,400 for the Children’s Inn at NIH, the Fisher House, helping military families, and the National Capital Area Food Bank. Now that’s entertainment and nourishment for the soul.