Giving Back

I was getting off Metro a few days ago when I ran into Sandra.  Having lived at Calvary a few years ago, Sandra now has a home, a job and a better relationship with her family.  But life is still challenging for her.  She told me that she still gets depressed sometimes.  “Life isn’t easy, but every day I get up and out.  I help at the church or the mission.  I go to work with my elderly patients. I try to give back.”  Sandra has found that reaching out to others in need keeps her going and makes her feel good.

There was a lesson for me in Sandra’s words.  It’s easy to get caught up in a busy schedule and life’s many challenges.  It is easy to tell yourself that you don’t have the time to do what you need to do, let alone volunteer to help others.

So, last weekend, my boys and I served dinner at Calvary Women’s Shelter.  We had a great time with one another and with the women living at Calvary.  I experienced the joy that comes from cooking and sharing a simple meal.  I was delighted when one of the women thanked me for the meal and shared her secret cornbread recipe with me. It was a positive experience – one that has stayed with me into this busy work week.

When you reach out to others, you almost always gain more than you give. Sandra and the women at Calvary reminded me of that.  Make you want to find a way to give back too?  Check out the volunteer opportunities at http://www.calvaryservices.org/howtohelp