I have a confession to make. I love words. I love their power to communicate stories and ideas. I love their power to connect and bring people awake to something new. Some days I feel like Charlotte from Charlotte’s Web, in need of someone to bring me “better” words like “radiant” or “humble” to describe what it is I’m trying to convey. But that struggle to express things beautifully makes me feel alive, and that’s part of why I love this daily conversation with all of you.

Dave Eggers also believes in the power of words. In fact, “radiant” or “humble” can’t begin to describe the inspirational, world-changing power of words in Dave Egger’s hands. You see, Dave has realized that words and language skills can open doors for kids who might otherwise be left behind. And in a stroke of genius, Dave has set out to change the world one child at a time.

You cannot begin to imagine my shock and delight when – innocently exploring the Mission District post gourmet lunch date at Tartine and Bi-Rite – my son and I stumbled upon 826 Valencia {of TEDtalk fame}. Not just any other store front, 826 Valencia is San Francisco’s only Independent Pirate Supply Store. I’m sure this might come as quite a surprise. After all, one might think the market for pirate supplies is huge in San Fran, being on the water and all. Nevertheless, 826 Valencia has the corner on the market.

Image via PrintMag

A most inventive and whimsical cover for their actual “covert” operation of tutoring children from the local school district, the pirate supply store is at once curious and comical, selling items like rubber leaches, wooden peg legs and bottles of gangrene. The whimsical storefront is also an engaging conversation starter and a powerful gateway to the real work that goes on behind the pirate flag separating the store front from the inspired room in back. Capitalizing on the compassion and talent of local creatives and academics, Dave Eggers offers free tutoring to children from the neighborhood. They may be in the business of selling pirate supplies, but they are also {more importantly} in the business of changing lives. Their impact has been so profound that Dave received the TED Prize for his work. If you want to get really inspired, watch his TEDtalk here.

For now, here’s a great little video to tell you more about it:

So why share this story on a design + lifestyle blog? Because I’ve promised to share with you the beauty I stumble upon in my everyday life. Dave and his team personify my motto: “Beautiful process, beautiful product.” They inspire me to always be watching for ways I can use my gifts to change the world. I hope they inspire you too.

What creatives have you stumbled upon who are using their gifts to change the world? I’d love to hear all about it!

xo
s.