I was looking through a newspaper insert of volunteering opportunities in our community.
It seems like everything is geared towards helping people who are poor, sick, or old. What's up with that?
Okay, just kidding. Kids also need help. So does Mother Nature. I just had to interject a bit of off-color humor to the proceedings. Didn't want people to think I was going soft.
I'm actually hip to the volunteering scene and have been trying to improve my 1 hour a month personal commitment. But I've found it difficult with a young family to get out there and just do it, as they say. I've contented myself until now by saying that we're okay because we donate money to organizations we believe in.
But I know there needs to be more, and I need to volunteer my time as well. Not just for society, but for myself and my well being, and as an example for my family.
I'm pretty generous in terms of what I consider volunteering. Blood donation, for example, counts. I figure that's an hour right there (not to mention a chili-cheese dog and pint of beer's worth of calories to replenish the blood and fluids).
So, okay, that's 6 hours a year out of the way. Now for something a little different. I've been so broad in what I consider volunteerism, I now include family.
2004 is the year of getting the Moms fixed up. Kathy's mom is moving out to Colorado this summer, so there's a tremendous amount to accomplish and assist with. My mom is in need of financial and life planning assistance. Should she move into a cheaper home? How to plan for future financial and medical needs... that's what's on the plate this year.
So, I definitely feel that giving and helping start at home, and we're definitely focused on that this year. The US isn't a social system, so it behooves us to take care of our family first and then extend outward from there.
I tried driving for the Red Cross. Basically, it was taking seniors to appointments, hospitals and such. Not bad, but not my cup of tea. It was me and 20 old guys doing the driving, and mostly you're by yourself because you are in a car. Not the social boost I was hoping for.
I'm now looking again for more opportunities, and I think I'm drawn to the physical outdoor stuff and the hands-on construction stuff. Two reasons. First, I'm young and can/should be able to do this stuff. Second, when I'm older there will be plenty of time for the other, quieter opportunities. I'm also drawn to more social activities, as that's a big benefit I could receive from volunteering.
It's like cruise vacations. Why bother until you are old.
So, I'm trying. But, it turns out, sometimes there needs to be less trying and more doing. I'll fill you in as I get things rolling!
Posted by BilFish at April 13, 2004 08:27 AM