By Marc Shaffer
At Searcy Financial® Services, we believe generosity is a cornerstone of strong relationships. Years ago, we came across a book that put words and strategy to something we already valued: thoughtful, meaningful giving. That book was Giftology by John Ruhlin.
Ruhlin’s premise is simple but powerful:
Gifts, when done well, are not about obligation, manipulation, or checking a box. They are about creating a genuine connection with people, whether clients, friends, colleagues, or family, by surprising and delighting them with something thoughtful, personal, and lasting.
Reading Giftology gave our team a framework for something we had always believed in but had not fully systemized: making generosity part of our culture. Since then, we have made it a priority to find ways to surprise and delight throughout the year. From sending a meaningful item that connects with someone’s passion to gifting an experience a family can enjoy together, we have embraced the idea that it is holiday season all year long at Searcy Financial®.
And the results? Everyone wins.
Just as with financial giving, gifting creates joy for both the giver and the receiver. It strengthens bonds, builds trust, and often sparks ripple effects of kindness that we could never predict.
A Small World Connection
When I was working with my writing coach on my book One For All: How to Systemize Kindness, Grow Your Network, and Support Others Like It’s Your Job, she paused at one point in our conversation and said:
“You know, your ideas remind me a lot of another client I worked with… John Ruhlin.”
That stopped me in my tracks. Small world! Not only had we been inspired by Giftology years earlier, but here I was, unknowingly walking a similar path of building systems of generosity and connection with the very same coach who had helped John shape his message. It reminded me that the principles of kindness, thoughtfulness, and community are universal.
Honoring John Ruhlin’s Legacy
Earlier this year, I was saddened to learn that John Ruhlin, originally from Illinois just about four hours from Kansas
City, passed away unexpectedly at the age of only 44. He left behind his wife and four daughters.
For someone who dedicated his life to giving, it was only fitting that his community found a way to give back. One of John’s best friends took on the mission of making sure his legacy lived on. He organized an effort where people who had been touched by John’s work could send a package to his family each month. These gifts serve as tangible reminders of the impact he made and the lives he enriched.
When I heard about this, I knew I wanted to be part of it. John had influenced me deeply, even though I never had the chance to meet him. So I sent a little bit of Kansas City to his family, pieces of our community that mean so much to me. And yes, I made sure to include a nod to Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift too. 😉
It was a small way to say “thank you” to someone whose ideas helped shape the culture of our firm and to show support to a family carrying on without their husband and dad.
The Heart of Giftology
What Giftology ultimately teaches is this: giving is not about things, it is about people.
A great gift is not measured by its price tag but by the thought and care that went into it. It is about showing someone they are seen, valued, and appreciated.
At Searcy Financial®, we have adopted this mindset as part of who we are. Whether it is a thoughtful note, a personalized gift, or a shared experience, we strive to make generosity and thoughtfulness part of our everyday culture. It is not just good business. It is good humanity. And the beautiful part is that it comes back full circle. The more we give, the more joy we experience ourselves. Relationships deepen, opportunities grow, and life feels a little brighter.
If you have not read Giftology, I highly recommend it. Whether you lead a company, manage a team, or simply want to strengthen personal relationships, the principles inside can make a profound difference. At Searcy Financial® Services, we are living proof of that. What started as a book we read years ago has turned into a cultural cornerstone, one that has shaped how we connect with clients, friends, and community.
For us, it is holiday season all year long.