This column is usually about politics.

In the past, I’ve deviated to comment on journalism; the first amendment, or the process of covering the news stirs me to act. I’ve occasionally shared personal reflections and family milestones. But for the most part, I don’t stray too far afield.

So when Tribune editor Brian Rafferty strongly suggested to me on Friday afternoon as I was getting ready to leave the office: “Mike, for our ‘Not-For-Profit’ glossy issue, I assume you’re writing about ‘Giving,’” I was taken aback.

Giving? Not an alien concept to me, but what the heck made me an expert on the subject – or even an informed commentator?

But if Brian thought this issue needed some additional words or thought on the subject, I’d try to do my part.

My approach was reflexive and thus politically oriented.

Two of today’s political giants are super-significant players in the world of philanthropy. And both have recently made headlines concerning “Giving” – the subject of this special issue.

Earlier this month, Mayor Mike Bloomberg’s office released his list of charitable donations made in 2006. Wow!

With a major focus on medical research, public health and the arts, Bloomberg gave away $165.3 million last year – an increase of some $22 million over the year before. His generosity has accelerated greatly each year since becoming Mayor.

In an in interview with this writer a few years ago, Bloomberg, one of the nation’s richest people, told me that he has no political aspirations beyond Mayor and plans on running a foundation when his term is up at the end of 2009. He has said that he plans to give away most of his fortune.

Mike Bloomberg, like several of today’s financial phenoms – most notably Bill Gates and Warren Buffet – is dedicating much of his fortune to improving the lot of mankind. After impacting society and acquiring a fortune, some of today’s most exceptional view “giving” as the way they can truly make a difference.

Mike Bloomberg does on a grand scale, what each of us can do in our small way, closer to home.

Next stop, Barnes and Noble to pick up the current best seller by the granddaddy of today’s political icons: Bill Clinton.

“Giving – How Each Of Us Can Change The World,” was written by the former President to inspire people to realize that they each have the power to participate in changing the world. Clinton clearly hopes to motivate a wave of volunteer activism and charitable giving. He provides stories of true charity in an effort to convince Americans at all income levels that happiness and fulfillment can be achieved by giving.

Citing the universality of the obligation to give preached by religions (tzedakuh in Judaism, zakat in Islam, tithing in Christianity, etc), Clinton closes his book with a final chapter: “How Much Should You Give and Why?”

Clinton’s response to the question is in the book’s final paragraph. He writes: “I think you know the answer. There’s a whole world out there that needs you, down the street or across the ocean. Give.”

As the holiday season approaches, Brian and his staff have prepared this Tribune special guide to Queens Not-For Profits to offer borough residents some direction in choosing to give to one of the many worthwhile organizations that can be found along the streets of Queens.

If Clinton is right, we are moving from an era of greed and moral stagnation into a rebirth of idealism and generosity.

Make the trip – it feels good.

Michael Schenkler can be reached via this contact form.

The current best seller by Bill Clinton, “Giving - How Each Of Us Can Change The World.”