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"I have the audacity to believe that people everywhere can have three meals a day for their bodies, education and culture for their minds, and dignity, quality, and freedom for their spirits. I believe that what self-centered men have torn down, other-centered men can build up." - Martin Luther King Jr.

Sean T. Kelly is the epitome of giving and inspiration. He is the president of P2PRescue, a non-profit organization that initially aims to help Sri Lankans after experiencing the destruction caused by the tsunami in 2004. Sean also plans to conquer other heights such as writing a book and extending support into other parts of the world.

This vision of his stems from his belief that "local is international" and that "needs don't have any borders" - the very reason behind his location independent support advocacy. 

Without further adieu, here's my One Question interview with Sean T. Kelly. 

As a non-profit organization president, most probably there are times that you feel that you're not sure if things are going your way. How do you keep yourself going?

Sean says.. 

I would say that much of my work is administrative, or at least I spend a good portion of my time apart from the communities I’m helping. That can make me feel, as you say, distant from your purpose or as if things aren’t going my way. In my case (living in the US but working to support Sri Lanka) I am literally distant from my communities. So I find I’m rejuvenated by ways of putting myself back in touch. I don’t necessarily mean “in touch” in the common business way, like reconnecting with people to learn of their current issues. That’s more of a process that helps you get your work done. A usual event, not an inspiration.

It’s not really much of a secret, but I find occasionally going back and looking at photos or video I’ve collected from my projects along the way really puts me back in touch with the reason I started this work. The photos of people smiling or expressing emotions akin to genuine gratitude provide me more positive feedback than any paycheck would. Plus, all those photos serve as valuable reminders of all the places I’ve been, how much work I truly have achieved, and (it’s important not to forget) some of the fun I’ve had.

Charity work is clearly about supporting a cause outside of oneself, even if the cause is a matter of important personal concern. As such it is super easy to forget your own value. By looking at reminders of where I’ve been, the people I’ve met, the events I’ve set in motion, it reminds me that I am having an effect of some kind, even if the ripples are mainly felt on the other side of the planet.

Thanks, Sean. We appreciate that you've shared with us these bits of wisdom. More power!