TUESDAY, AUGUST 1, 2023 - I AM TOO BUSY ...

 TUESDAY, AUGUST 1, 2023 - I AM TOO BUSY (BUT …)

I’m not sure this fits after yesterday’s blog, where I said I’m too busy. Today I’m writing about volunteering.

Much of my busyness is in free “work” (volunteering). I have volunteered all my life - from being a child in the children’s choir to a cross-guard, acting in plays, and so much more.

I know people who DON’T volunteer - but that’s not my style.

I volunteer at my church for some different things. (In the past, I even ran the “Wine Wheel” for the church festival). I’ve been a greeter, reader, usher, singer, and more.

My music is all volunteering. (I do get a free meal when we play at Walburg). That means practicing at home and practicing with the orchestra every week. (And I don’t miss rehearsals if I don’t have to).

I drive seniors for free as a volunteer. I don’t even get gas money or mileage. I take them to doctor’s appointments, the grocery store, and other shopping. (It isn’t volunteering anymore - it is way beyond that - it is friendship). 

I take some of my senior friends to lunch and pay (most of the time).  

There are three rules for volunteering (also for business):

1. Show up

2. Show up on time

3. Show up on time, ready to work

I’m not volunteering at the senior living center. They do have volunteers - but I get paid. There is a method in that decision (to get paid). Some volunteers might say, “Oh, I don’t feel like going today. I’m “JUST” a volunteer; they won’t miss me.”  

Years ago, when placing students for summer internships, there were paid and unpaid internships. I urged the students to take paid positions. On the unpaid internships, some managers say, “Oh boy, we have an intern this summer. They can make copies, run errands, make coffee, run for donuts, yup - “free help”!!

I wanted my students to get jobs - and when employers paid for student interns, it was a “try before your buy.” And I expected the students to earn their summer pay and employment after graduation.

*****

Yes, you have to watch your commitments. I volunteered years ago to be a Scoutmaster. Our son was preparing to be an Eagle Scout. The previous Scoutmaster had left the community, and nobody else was ready to be Scoutmaster. Yes, I slept in a tent, sometimes in the rain or heat - because it needed to be done FOR THE BOYS.  

What is your passion? Can you volunteer to help out? Can you sing or play music? Join a choir, band, or orchestra (or all three). Can you be on a board of directors? Can you help seniors? Can you help kids? Please give us some time to improve the world.

For my infirm friends, you can still volunteer. My friend MN calls for her church to see who will ride the church van on Sunday.  

Friends, some of you have done a lot of volunteering in the past - so you might be exempt - but many organizations can use some help occasionally. (One group asks people to put letters in envelopes periodically!!!)

LOVE WINS means helping out - and serving in LOVE (not complaining)

LOVE TRANSFORMS means letting your own life be changed - but also others’ as you serve

KAREN ANNE WHITE, ©, AUGUST 1, 2023