Born on Third Base

Writing Style 

Before I share my thoughts on Born on Third Base by Chuck Collins, I would like to briefly praise the author’s writing style. Unlike Kurt Timmermeister, the author of Growing a Farmer, Chuck is clearly an avid writer who uses several techniques from business writing. He begins each chapter with a thought provoking quote, uses subheadings to introduce new ideas, and writes in plain English. Moreover, the overall structure is especially helpful to stay on track while reading this rather dense book.

What I Thought

In my opinion, Chuck’s invitation to the wealthiest citizens to recommit their wealth to social good is extremely strategic. I find it ironic that some billionaires are more powerful than entire countries. Yet, it’s these one-percenters that Chuck will influence through his book by sharing his story with his peers. Not only has he voiced his own opinion about social inequality but has described tangible ways for the one-percenters to join his mission to level the playing field. His points on unequal opportunity reminded me of a short video than clearly explains the divide amongst the privileged and the rest of the population:

How I Felt

On a personal note, reading Born on Third Base a month before graduation encouraged me to reevaluate my professional goals. Chuck’s journey of donating his wealth at an early an age and living a life of philanthropy is truly inspiring. It prompts me to have confidence in my own decisions, no matter what my peers or parents may think is right. It makes me wonder if creating immense social impact will lead to a more fulfilling life, than merely accumulating exorbitant amounts of wealth. I hope this book and the conversations we have in class about philanthropy will consciously or subconsciously influence my professional goals to create social change in the future.