I've always volunteered from the time I was in my early twenties until about five or so years ago...one project in particular totally burned me out and I decided to take a breather. Although I do support several organizations with monetary gifts when I can, the hands-on volunteering came to a halt. I was getting older and I didn't have as much energy and...well...that was my excuse anyhow. Anyone who volunteers knows in their heart that the pure act of helping someone brings you energy - energy to your spirit which then will energize your body.
Elizabeth got me thinking today. When I retire in about three years, I hope to get back to the hands on volunteerism. I have thought about it now and again. What will I do? Who will I volunteer with? How and who will I be able to help? But I never thought about helping in the best way possible. Taking the best things about myself and passing them on to others. Using my best capabilities to creatively help others. I think it's time to start a positive list - all the things that embody my spirit that I think might be worth teaching or using in some way to help others. Maybe by the time I retire I'll actually have a plan of action? Thanks Elizabeth!
Well Jill, I came by to visit you after your comment on my blog. How surprised I was to find this! : )
ReplyDeleteYou will have so much fun finding your own special way to bless others with your creativity.
And after reading your other post, I had to share this photo of my Great Pyrenees. She's not quite full grown here http://windandhoney.blogspot.com/2010/06/opps.html
Oh Jill, after reading your friend and your blog, I feel so unaccomplished!! First of all, I so respect your profession. Here in TX their doing away with many teachers in the Fine Arts, P.E., Special Ed. and even English professions! My daughter is a 6th grade music teacher and teaches in one of the most dangerous areas in Austin....she loves her kids and likewise, but she is on the chopping block. She recently applied to be a foster parent because so many of her students come from abusive, drug and gang oriented households ( and using that word very loosely)but all she wants to do is help these kids...she has that volunteer spirit.
ReplyDeleteI did a lot of that when my kids were much younger at their schools and later in our community, but after my youngest was born, he's autistic and has A.D.H.D however I tell him at age 25 he now has A.D.S.D., Attention Deficit Slug Disorder!! LOL My volunteering days were over. I want to help out again and your blog as your friends, were inspirational and I now must get motivated to do something, more than donate pieces of art work to worthy organizations.
Sorry for being so wordy...have a great weekend and take care.
Georgina
I volunteer now that my children are no longer close by and I find it rewarding. Sometimes though it can lead to another volunteer project and you are worn out trying to help but like you it makes me feel good inside.
ReplyDeleteI like your plan though a lot better. It makes more sense actually to do it your way.
Love
Maggie
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ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteYou have many areas of creativity. You will probably have more trouble narrowing your choices than listing them.
ReplyDeleteHey honey just wanted to come by and say hello and to thank you for always leaving me the best comments.
ReplyDeleteI so appreciate you.
Hope your having a great weekend
Love
Maggie
Hi Jill, I could have sworn I commented on this post...
ReplyDeleteThanks for this link, have enjoyed my visit here today.
Also, your lovely package arrived and thank you! I'm going to blog about your lovely gift and thank you, thank you! It's beautiful and means the earth to me.
God bless you, greatly.