Dave and I recently embarked on a new journey: volunteerism. This is something we’ve wanted to do for years but never made the time. Finally, we stopped making excuses and took action. After considering dozens of wonderful causes, we decided to begin as “friendly visitors” at a local nursing home, where we’ll spend time with people who don’t get many visitors.
Our orientation was scheduled for this past Tuesday. Before we went, I contacted the Volunteer Coordinator to ask what we needed to bring. She replied, “Nothing. Just come with an open heart.”
It’s been a couple days since the orientation, but those words have stayed with me. Come with an open heart.
I think it’s valuable advice for anyone embarking on a new journey, whether it’s volunteerism, a new job, marriage, parenthood, retirement or another path. When we approach life with an open heart, we not only make a difference to those around us, we allow them to make a difference to us too.
Next time you embark on a new journey, go with an open heart.
Good for you! My volunteer position recently, after a lot of patience and prayer, became paid, but I still give it as much (or more) attention. I am thankful that I am able to have a job that I love and look forward to every single day. I love never dreading going to work.
You are very fortunate indeed! Reminds me of the old adage, when you love your job you never work a day in your life 🙂
Being a “friendly visitor” helps the residents as well as their families. My late hubby was in a nursing home at age 33 – locked-in (think Diving Bell and Butterfly), so he was bored out of his mind. I remain grateful to the staff, but especially the people who visited. It helped him pass the time when I wasn’t there. Thanks for having an open heart.
Thanks for sharing this, Stacy. It’s nice to know that our efforts at the nursing home truly will a make a difference.
Erika