One day without shoes

You know the old saying "you mustn't judge someone until you have walked a mile in their shoes"?  Well, what if that person doesn't even own shoes? Millions of children all over the world, don't even own one pair of shoes and are prone to infections, disease and danger every day.  Some children have to walk miles and miles to school barefoot in all sorts of weather conditions.  What if you could do something to help prevent this on going tragedy?   

No shoes!

This is where TOMS shoes comes into play. Blake Mycoskie, the founder and starter of TOMS shoes, created an empire a few years ago with one idea. This brilliant idea came after spending time in Argentina and seeing tons of poor children walking around barefoot. Upon returning to the US, Blake did some research, some selling and some talking and after a few months of work he created his first shoes (inspired by alpargatas -a popular style shoe worn by many farmers in Argentina) and thus started his organization. The mission of this organization is that "for every pair of shoes sold, TOMS will give another pair to a child in need". The name TOMS stands for "a better TOMorrow". With an inspiration turned idea, turned empire (with the help of many), Blake has been extremely successful and has already made a change in the lives of many poor children, especially in South America.

Blake Mycosckie with kids

TOMS shoes

Please watch this incredible video (it is a little long I warn you) explaining the process of giving shoes to those in need.  It is a fascinating video that proves the motto "for every pair of shoes sold, TOMS will give a pair to a child in need".

http://www.hulu.com/watch/224163/for-tomorrow-the-toms-shoes-story

What is "One Day Without Shoes"?!

Well, according to Blake, the reason for this day is to remind ourselves of all that we have.  He states:

 "I think sometimes we forget what we have, and occasionally it's important to remind ourselves. Most people don't even realize how many children in developing countries grow up barefoot and all the risks, infections and diseases they endure. For most of us, modern shoes our so comfortable and accessible, wall but forget about our feet, but they are a source of constant focus for others. I wanted everyone to personally understand the impact of shoes, and the difference they can make, so we thought, "Why don't we get a taste of what these kids go through every day" (Blake Mycosckie).

I decided to participate in this incredible "one day without shoes" [don't judge my unpainted toes].  It is my hope to spread the awareness of TOMS and everything this organization is about.  I feel extremely passionate about this cause because I too was extremely affected by the poverty I saw and experienced while living in Argentina.  I have never seen so many homeless, shoeless and dirty children in my life.  I strongly believe that TOMS will continue to change the lives of many.  Every little bit helps, so if you are interested please go to http://www.toms.com/ and purchase a pair of the shoes and in doing so, help a child in need.  Read about the cause and browse the website, it is very informative.

By not wearing shoes for part of the day today, it has made me realize the every day things I take for granted. Today is supposed to be about "uncomfort".  Feeling, for a few minutes/an hour/the whole day, what it might be like to not own shoes.  Sure people will stare, ask questions and think it's odd,  but we are making a statement and getting a sense of what those children feel and experience every single day.

So make an effort and support this cause by going barefoot for part of your day or by purchasing a pair of TOMS. I am telling you, you will not regret it.  After you watch the first video I posted in this blog, my hope is that it will touch your heart like it did mine and you will also feel the need to support these children in any way possible.

What will you do without shoes today?!