Tuesday, April 23, 2013

The spirit of volunteerism

Where would we be without volunteers-those people who do things for other people for absolutely nothing.  Well, not exactly nothing.  Maybe there's no monetary reward but the other rewards far out weigh any money one would receive.

Last night an organization called Golden Opportunities hosted a dinner for the volunteers who are associated with it. 

It was a great 'opportunity' to meet other "opportuners".  There was a lot of good conversation and many people shared stories of their volunteering adventures.

From time to time I'll hear someone who is retired complain that they're bored or there's nothing to do or they don't have any special skills to be a volunteer. 

That of course is nonsense.  You don't need  special skills to volunteer.  At a minimum all you need to do is sit and listen and occasionally move the conversation along with a few questions.

Many elderly people are lonely and would welcome the company.  But one does not need to volunteer with the elderly if that's not your particular cup of tea.  There are many other ways to reach out and improve the lives of others.  Sometimes it's in a big way, sometimes not.  It doesn't matter.  Just do it.  You'll never regret it.




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