Tim’s book, Standing 0n the Shoulders, wrestles with a central question Tim himself pondered: “‘Are there going to be people that are going to have to fix everything that I broke during my life, or are they going to stand upon my shoulders, stand firmer, or see farther, love deeper because of the way that I lived?'” Tim’s father serves as a powerful example of the latter.

Pictured above: Tim Brand in prayer as his son, AJ, looks over his shoulder

Tim acknowledges that not everyone has a picture-perfect past. Some of us inherit “a big old box full of poo that has been stamped guarantee on,” as he puts it. But the key, he argues, is not to let that box define us. Instead, we can choose to transform that pain into fertilizer, nurturing growth and positive change. Tim emphasizes, “Those pains and those hurts are the best fertilizer for change. If we process through it, not run away from it, not go around it, not avoid it.”

Perhaps the most powerful message Tim shares is the importance of generosity. He emphasizes being generous with grace, forgiveness, time, and resources. His father, he says, embodied this principle – seeing the good in others, offering tough love when needed, and sharing his love freely. “Tim,” Tim recalls his father saying in his final words, “you have loved me so well.” This act of generosity, Tim believes, is a powerful legacy.

Tim encourages readers to reflect on their own journeys. By understanding our past, present, and aspirations, we can chart a course towards becoming the best versions of ourselves. He reminds us that we all have a unique voice and story to share, and the world needs to hear them. “Don’t be afraid to share your story for who you uniquely are and generally from where you’re at,” Tim urges.

 Pictured above: Left, Tim in Haiti, 2000 Right, Tim and his wife, Catie in Haiti, 2008

​​Tim acknowledges the inevitability of death. “We can’t outrun death,” he says. “If at the end of the day if we’re trying to avoid dying, we’re in a losing battle.” So, what do we do with the precious time we have? Tim offers this advice: “The question is, what are we going to do with the now? How do we be where our feet are planted now? How do we start to build paths or create pathways that are going to take us to become the best versions of ourselves now and allow others to join on that journey at the same time?”

The title, “Standing on the Shoulders,” perfectly captures the essence of Tim’s message. We are all products of those who came before us, and our actions have the power to uplift future generations. By embracing generosity and living a meaningful life, we can all leave a positive legacy for others to stand upon.

Pictured above: Tim and his daughter, Abbie, 2011

Pictured above: Tim in Haiti, 2012

Tim concludes with a sentiment of gratitude for those who provide guidance throughout life’s transitions. Creating spaces for support and connection is essential, he says, as we navigate the inevitable challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. “This world needs you and your unique voice and your unique story to show up,” Tim declares.

About Many Hands:

Many Hands is an Iowa-based nonprofit creating local and global life-transformation by strengthening families.  Established in 2008, the organization focuses on six key areas for transformation, including education, agronomy, leadership development, safe homes, medical assistance, and economic development. Each year, the organization reaches at least 25,000 people through their Haitian operations, IMPACT trips, and Many Hands four Thrift Markets located in the greater Des Moines, Iowa area. 

Many Hands is called to transform together, to be love in action, in a broken world.