Cathy Beesey Founder Stories Connecting Us

Goal 9 for 2021: Establish a way of giving to others. I know it’s not a SMART goal. Yes it is Simple but is it Manageable, Achievable and Realistic? I don’t know, how could I? There is so little to it, more a thought, a wish, than a goal.  It is Time-bound for the year 2021.  

1990s travelling through the USA I read an article in a local paper, the city I cannot remember, maybe Chicago, but I do remember the story. A group of women drinking cocktails to raise money for charities. Sounded fun, intriguing. Each woman in the group took a turn to host an event: selecting a cocktail, inviting others to participate and choosing a charity to support with money raised on the night. 

A theme is selected: a cocktail and time in history. For example, Singapore Sling and the 1920s, Bloody Mary 1930s, Daiquiri 1940s, Martini 1950s and so it could continue. Drinking, sharing food and laughter with a decorative large container sitting in full view for money to be placed. Of course the more cocktails consumed, the more money raised. 

Why have I remembered this story? Can I achieve my flimsy goal in 2021? My mind swirls with ideas as I plan an event in our home. Bellini Cocktail: puree of white peach and Prosecco. An Italian theme with food displayed on our many dishes collected as we’ve travelled through Italy, surrounded by our photos and artefacts. That’s it. 

But, is there a way I could make this more than a one-off event? Could I inspire others to join me, to take turns to host a cocktail party? Is it worth it? Is it ethical to use alcohol to make money for charities? Researching, thinking and writing; is this my flimsy goal turning into a plan? 

Goal 9 not achieved in 2021, or beyond.   

Copyright Cathy Beesey, October 2024. All rights reserved; this intellectual property belongs solely to Cathy Beesey.

I read this piece to University of the Third Age, U3A Merri-bek A Community of Writers Group on Tuesday 8 October 2024. A piece written years before as I did my reflection in January for the previous year and created goals for 2021. For me this piece of writing resonated with who I am, wanting to achieve and give back after a life I would describe as privileged.