Volunteer- An Honor To Serve
Yesterday, September 11, marked the day that tragedy struck deep in the heart of every American and rippled around the world . . . tragedy of horrific proportion that will never be forgotten. To commemorate the day and honor those who fell in the service of others, President Obama declared this a day of volunteerism.
It seems fitting that we are called to action in a way that benefits humanity, whether sending care packages to our soldiers or building shelters for the homeless. It is a very American thing to do.
At a time when many people are jobless and everyday more are homeless, our sense of commitment to our community is unwavering. At a time when billions in wealth have been squandered and thousands of lives have been sacrificed, we mourn our neighbor’s loss as well as our own. At a time when no one’s assets are secure, we share because we are a generous people, because we are Americans. And in some small way, we hope that we would have the courage to act as those men and women on September 11 who lunged into a towering inferno or crashed their plane in a field or picked through the rubble breathing in the ashes of destruction . . . to help total strangers.
I often speak for women’s causes, principally focusing on women’s cancers. The truth is that all charities need help right now. All non-profits are struggling because of the economy. So on a day when we honor those whose selfless efforts on 9/11/2001 taught the world what it means to live in service to humankind, pick a charity of your choice and lend your hand (and heart) to a cause.
Wondering how to get involved? The Entertainment Industry Foundation has made it easy with a website (www.iparticipate.org) dedicated to matching volunteers and causes. Covering the gamut - cancer, sports, children, environment, military– your interests are matched with opportunities. All worthy. All in need of our help.
I never imagined that charity work would consume my days and clutter my desk, for it was not my calling. But over the years I found that, not only did they need me, but I needed them. As I became more involved, I evolved.
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Add a Comment2 Comments
So well said, Annette. Each new day presents the opportunity to help others. To us our actions and words may not seem special, but to the other person, they may mean the world. We should tread gently and treat gently as we never know what burdens the other is carrying.
Thank you for putting into words what many of us were thinking.
Laurel
September 12, 2009 - 2:24pmThis Comment
Annette I love this!
In a day and age when so many seem preoccupied with looks and weight and being "hot!" and the superficial has becoming meaningful, it's great to see and know that so many are still leading a "purpose-driven life". It really matters to do things that aren't all about me me me.
When people focus on themselves constantly, not only are they doing a disservice to others - they are to themselves as they are not the most fascinating of people! Volunteers are interesting - they have a broader perspective on life and don't start every sentence with "I". While loving ourselves is vital, we're doing ourselves a favor by lessening the self-focus once in a while!
For my part, we donated money to the humane society earlier this week. It wasn't much but it'll fill the bellies of a few pups and kittens for a few days. We can't give a whole lot of time right now, as we devote that to our kids who deserve it and need it. But an hour or two here or there, and a dollar or two when we can, can make all the difference. And when we have more time and more money, then we'll do more.
Thanks for your share - it was good to read.
September 12, 2009 - 4:35pm