I don’t know professional skateboarder Tony Hawk’s thoughts on God, politics, or charity, but I do know he’s a cool guy.

First of all, he’s a young 41, just like me, and I strive for his level of coolness. Truth is, I may surpass him someday.

In all seriousness, I admire Hawk because he’s doing, even at 41, what he loves to do. He has been insightful enough to realize that his business wouldn’t be successful unless he continued skating.  Aside from continuing to skate, Hawk sits atop a video game, skateboard, bicycle, clothing, shoe business empire.

Hawk was recently asked if it was important for business that he stay active in his sport.  In response, Hawk said, “You’ve got to walk the walk. You’ve got to be out there skating and seeing what people are into. If I don’t make time to skate, I feel like I’m faking it.”

Each of the businesses and people who have bought days in support of Sonlight Lex and the two organizations we support have that same passion about what they do.  They’re eager to find new opportunities to reach out and be a part of their community.  They’re demonstrating they care about where they live and work.

Each person or business taking part in Sonlight Lex is much more than simply what it is they do. They realize they’re a part of something bigger than their profession.

I’m glad to know there are people like that, right in our midst.  Walking the walk.

Image courtesy of Dizzo, iStockphoto.com profile.

Source: “Innovators+Tony Hawk,” Gary Cohn, Entrepreneur, October 2009.