Well, I had a blog all lined up to write and I had to scratch it. I've found something so much better to write about.
Have you ever just needed to know that you're needed and wanted? I think that's what's had me down the last few months. I've been feeling disposable, as if I'm really not needed for anything, if that makes any sense. I've noticed that I've been trying to throw myself into all kinds of projects, projects where I'm really not wanted/needed/welcome and I've just been struggling to find my niche.
I think it all started when I took this new job. Suddenly I was working a 'real' job and had my evenings to myself. For seven years I never had my evenings to myself and, even though I craved that 'me' time, I didn't know what to do when I finally got it. As a result, I spent a lot of time online and I think it just finally got to me.
I read the classifieds every Sunday and the United Way is always soliciting volunteers and I figured there was no time like the present to get involved. I think volunteering is so important, but I was just never able to fit it into my schedule. I was already spreading myself so thin with school and work; I didn't need to add another thing to my plate. It wouldn't have been fair to the organization or me.
This morning I filled out an online application and, I swear, within the last few hours I've had several requests from different United Way Agencies for my help. It's an unbelievable feeling when you know someone needs your help and you're about to make a difference in your community. To think that I may make a child's day a little brighter; raise funds for a non-profit organization; serve on the board of an agency; or just help with odds and ends for events really just puts a smile on my face.
I'll admit I can be self-centered sometimes (who isn't?), but I've always been one of those who wants to make other people happy. I'm one of those who likes giving presents more than I like getting them. Just to see the smile on someone's face makes it worthwhile.
I always see/hear people who say they don't regret anything in their lives, but I'm not one of those. One of the biggest things I regret is not getting more involved when I spent six months at Disney. There were volunteer opportunities available to me and I never participated in any of them. I was too busy talking on the phone to my boyfriend. I've kicked myself in the butt so many times for not making the most of my time there and I wasn't going to let this opportunity pass me by as well.
So, I encourage you to get involved in your communities. If you don't know how, check out this Web site: www.volunteermatch.org
In the process of making someone else happy, I bet you'll make yourself happier. :-)
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