As we reflect on our lives, we see we have a lot to be thankful for. I see so many people giving back during these harsh economic times and it makes me feel happy and proud for the kindness and generosity of our fellow human beings. As I was watching a television special last night, “A Year with Katie Couric” in which Katie reviewed all of the past years’ news stories, there was a segment on “heroes”. I realized that now more than ever we have “everyday” heroes that don’t have much themselves, but are still willing to give of their time, talent or treasures to help others.
So I’m asking you to think about ways you can give back to your community for the upcoming New Year…
I’ve been thinking about that since yesterday and I realized that I do give back to my church home (where I receive my spiritual food) as far as tithing, but I want to give back and really help other human beings solve the problems that confront them. So I thought about my skills, my background, my passions, and my mission statement and this is what I came up with.
I wanted to help “women” to be more independent, more self-sufficient and happy. Given my 15+ year background in the legal field, my love of the law, and my past (I was in an abusive marriage for many years in my 20’s), I realized that because I overcame that “problem”, that I can help other women with this issue.
So I did some searching on Google and I am filling out an application right now to be a volunteer at an organization in Maryland, called “The House of Ruth“. The House of Ruth began in November of 1977, when a courageous band of women joined forces, united by their vision and determination to stop the emotional, physical and sexual abuse of victims.
I have a passion for this topic/issue/problem because I was in this situation myself and I know what it takes to leave that kind of relationship. I had 3 small children and it wasn’t easy financially or emotionally. I am volunteering to work in the legal clinic.
So I want you to start thinking about how you can “give back to your community” in the next year. Not just by writing a check (which we all should be doing), but really helping someone overcome a problem that you’ve overcome in your life.
Ask yourself the following questions:
- What major problem in my life have I overcome?
- What am I passionate about?
- What hurts my heart when I think about it?
- What problem can I help others solve?
Once you reflect on your answers, then you’ll know “who” you came here to help. Just do a google search and look for organizations in your area; also ask around to friends and colleagues.
I was watching Joel Osteen a couple of weeks ago on his weekly television show and he said no matter how bad we think things are, there is always someone suffering more than we are and if we change our perspective and start focusing on all that we have and become grateful, then we become a victor instead of a victim.
You are not a victim. Chelsea Clinton said in an interview on Rock Center last week that her grandmother’s core adage was that it’s not what happens to you in life, it’s what you do with it. Chelsea is now giving back in a BIG way!
