Between the political campaigns, direct mail and social media – donating and fulfilling the endless list of needs can feel…well…endless.

But it isn’t.

There is a difference between giving money so you feel good about giving charity and giving money that makes your heart skip a beat. To figure out the difference that means the most to you – just listen to the stories and impact of your donation.

Is your money ‘feeding the homeless’ or is it helping Mike, a 29 year old Iraqi Vet with PTSD, stabilize his life and take care of his wife and child? Does your donation pay for a talented staff to help sick children or provide water to eight villages in Africa? Do you know?

Can a donation do more? Can a donation be better?

Yes and yes.

There is a ‘high’ that comes from donating time and money – it’s philanthropy high. Around Christmas and Chanukah, I call it a blessing high. The endorphin high that an Olympian, a Triathlete or the grand slam batter at game 7 at the bottom of the 9th inning at the World Series feels pales in comparison to the ‘blessing high’ I am talking about. If you haven’t felt it yet, change the charity you donate to. If you have felt it, I know you are probably an addict like me. It is an addiction that cannot be denied.

This ‘blessing high’ is simultaneously a responsibility and the ability to be profound in the difference we can make in this world. In other words, be cynical and succumb to the paralysis of our 24/7/365 media and political campaigns of vitriol, poverty and war or choose a ‘blessing high’.

A lifelong learner, I was taught that it isn’t ours to finish the job, but neither are we free to desist from it either. With Guidestar.org, the Chronicle of Philanthropy, Stanford Social Innovation Review, technology, 990’s and every expert in the field rating and telling you where to give, I recommend that you consider the obvious first: who do you know that is doing great work and making a profound impact and difference? Give locally, give globally – but if you don’t feel that ‘blessing high’ then try something else next time.

And become an addict like me.