I had an experience today I think will last for a lifetime. I had the privilege of volunteering at YouthLink Mpls representing my work (GE). When I signed up, I just thought it would give me a chance to earn some volunteering hours, but it turned into a true ah hah moment. YouthLink is a drop in shelter that serves youths ages 16-23. These youths come from all walks of life. It was their monthly birthday party, so we brought birthday cake and ice-cream. We started playing bingo at 4:30 and got to hand out 4 Target gift cards to the winners. This was followed by serving dinner at 5:30 and cake and ice-cream at 6:00. To see these youths....boys, girls, girls with babies, pregnant girls, LGBTQ youth...really tugged at my heart. Most of them come from very rough homes, many having been abused and/or exposed to chemical abuse. Some were kicked out because they got pregnant, other because they simply came out as LGBTQ. In fact, the director estimated that between 20-40% of the youth are LGBTQ. Being with these kids, I was stuck by how much I really do have and how much I take for granted. Then I think of all the times I whine about not having something like the latest model of car or new pair of jeans or fancy jacket. Or I complain that my job is too stressful, or I wish my family were this way or that. Today I truly realized that I have everything! I dont think Im going to sell everything now and live on the streets, but I do think I have a brand new perspective on what I really DO have and that Id better not complain over the small stuff. Life is short, people. Love, give, embrace and forgive! Oh and dont forget....get out there and VOLUNTEER! You might make a difference in someone elses life or even your own (or both)!
Posted on: Wed, 17 Sep 2014 01:13:07 +0000
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