Journal entry by Al Negstad — 23 minutes ago
When is one to old to make a difference? When did "Giving something back" enter our lexicon? Joanne loved volunteering. She served on the Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota (LSS) governing board until shortly before she was diagnosed with cancer. Her volunteer work at the reception desk of LSS' Center For Changing Lives was a good use of her natural gifts of hospitality. Being the extreme extrovert she loved telephone banking. Many people received birthday or anniversary cards from her. Being a volunteer 'grandma' at a house for single moms gave her much satisfaction. Even as her physical health declined much of her energy was devoted to volunteering.
In chapter 7, 'Purpose: Making a Difference', in Elder's Rising: The Promise and Perils of Aging, Roland D. Martinson, there are three rhetorical questions. (p. 129)
"Does my life matter anymore?"
"Do I make a difference?"
"Is there any reason to get out of bed in the morning?"
Personal observation: I've noticed that I struggle more with grief and loneliness during the holiday break from school. The rhythm of teaching four mornings a week not only structures my time but gives me the satisfaction of doing something meaningful. It is important to feel that I am making a difference, and, yes, there is a reason to get out of bed.
Blessings,
Al
In chapter 7, 'Purpose: Making a Difference', in Elder's Rising: The Promise and Perils of Aging, Roland D. Martinson, there are three rhetorical questions. (p. 129)
"Does my life matter anymore?"
"Do I make a difference?"
"Is there any reason to get out of bed in the morning?"
Personal observation: I've noticed that I struggle more with grief and loneliness during the holiday break from school. The rhythm of teaching four mornings a week not only structures my time but gives me the satisfaction of doing something meaningful. It is important to feel that I am making a difference, and, yes, there is a reason to get out of bed.
Blessings,
Al
No comments:
Post a Comment