Carolyn Farb is the personification of a philanthropist. A native from the state of Texas in America, she has dedicated her life to raising funds for all sorts of charities. Her vivacity and personal approach to the tasks on hand are what set her apart from other philanthropists. In fact, in 1983 she was the first person to ever raise more than USD 1 million in a single event. Over the years she has gone on to raise more than USD 50 million and she is still very active. We are very pleased to give you her replies to our two questions.

Happy is holding the memory of my beloved Grandfather Jake in my heart who inspires me every day. The word happiness is elusive. It can be the simplest joy we experience when savoring a strawberry cupcake or looking at the rainbows of the sky. Then again, happiness can be very complicated with many layers, like making a positive difference in almost impossible situations where a magic wand can work. Art is an important essence in my life as I am a kindred spirit who feels compassion and celebrates the spirit of artists. I love the delight that my Godchild Clara Elizabeth has in wanting to be Rapunzel for her fourth birthday celebration- without a care in the world, she boldly attaches a blonde braid to her dark tresses. Being a friend and muse to the artistic director of Stages Repertory Theater and the founder of the Dominic Walsh Dance Company, I enjoy experiencing their energies bloom.

Engaging with friends and peers in stimulating conversations and sharing the experiences of like-minded and free thinking individuals. Most of all, the unconditional love I receive from my canine Lucas Terrier companions Lucas and Maximillian and their adorable antics. Happiness is a state of mind.

The world we live in is all that we know. There will always be change. In many countries, people are not at peace. Wars continue to be fought over century-harbored ideas and achieve only limited success.

If I could influence a change to resolve these conflicts, it would be to focus on an enlightened mind-set to better understand the philosophies and beliefs of others. Through education, compassion and fellowship, we have the potential to reach limitless possibilities. We must first realize the differences among us and understand why they exist. We can then create a new landscape designed on a pattern of harmony. I wish for us to have the grace and patience to sit together and discuss our problems in a reasonable manner setting a dialogue that would begin to combine our universal hopes and dreams.

The rapid improvements in social media, as well as other technologies, provides us with the best mechanisms for compassion to achieve these goals. The miracle of technology gives us the ability to lift up our tired and weary giving hope and a future where there is none.

Together, we can change the world into a better place for all. It can happen in our lifetime!

Editorial | Image Courtesy Of Sofia Van Der Drys