...as in, we "ought" to be doing something!
"Not only must we be good, but we must be good for something." -- Henry David Thoreau, 19th century American author, poet, historian and philosopher
So, you resolved to be a "better" person; to be kinder, gentler, more thoughtful. Or perhaps, you promised yourself to practice empathy or generosity. I mentioned in previous posts that I agreed with myself to spend less and do more. While giving money to important, worthwhile causes is commendable (raised funds help solve problems, research cures and buy supplies), the gifts of time, manpower and elbow grease cannot be measured. To show up is to shore up: your presence in time of need speaks volumes louder than an envelope containing a check. You show literal support: with sleeves rolled up, work boots on and hands open for tasks, you put a face on what it means to "help."
Fortunately, Americans have stepped up in these challenging times to do their part. In 2009, the number of Americans who volunteered in their communities rose 2.6% to 63.4 million. The annual percentage of U.S. adults who volunteer is 26.8%. On this eve of January 17, 2011, our observance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday, I sincerely hope you will seek out an opportunity to celebrate A Day of Service somewhere in our great nation. Make it a day on, as opposed to a day off. (I personally have accepted an email invitation from Michelle Obama to volunteer at a project in my Brooklyn nabe listed through Organizing for America.)
But it won't stop there. One day is great, but we should learn to give of self on a regular basis. If you're already involved in school activities with your kids and their friends, such as coaching, mentoring or tutoring, you're well on your way! Or, if you work with your church, organizing events, visiting the sick and shut-in or manning the soup kitchen, you know what this is about. Make a difference. Accomplish a goal that doesn't come with a company bonus. Do something without expectation of accolades or return business. Invest in your community, our youth, the future. Studies have shown that generosity is good for you: senior citizens who volunteer live longer.
"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." -- Mahatma Gandhi, prominent lawyer, philosopher and civil-rights leader
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Sign Me Up...
Want to do something but don't know how to get started? Check the links to these suggestions below to find a volunteer event or opportunity near you!
Single Volunteers, Inc. - Where a single person can make a difference
Serve.gov - United We Serve
TimeBanks.org - Strengthening communities through reciprocity
AmeriCorps.org - Serving Communities and Country
