I remember talking to my grandma just a month or two after
my grandpa passed away. Grandma had moved into a retirement home and I had
called her to see how she was doing (she lived in another state.) I
had been very concerned about her.
I will not soon forget the excitement in her voice as she
shared with me her excitement in the fact that she now had a “job” at the
retirement home. When I inquired what it was, she proceeded to tell me that
when she went downstairs for mealtime, she would grab the hand sanitizer and
bring it to those who were unable to walk. She would take the hand sanitizer to those in wheelchairs,
walkers, etc and give them a chance to use it like the rest of the residents.
That little “job” was so appreciated by the residents who she ministered to!
She paid attention to a need that they had, when no one else had. She was welcomed and embraced for it. In addition, she felt useful – and
needed. Something that was crucial at this tender time of transition in her
life.
We all need to feel
useful. We all need to feel like we have something to give this world. The
older you get, the more that need lives inside of us, I think. There is
something so beneficial that happens when we pour ourselves out and minister to
other people. Whether it’s by making a meal for a mom or family in need,
driving someone somewhere, babysitting, answering the phone, delivering fresh
vegetables from your garden – or administering hand sanitizer to those who
can’t walk up and get it themselves….being able to fill a need in the lives of
others somehow fills a huge need in ourselves, as well.
I think that is why it is so important that we teach our
children very early on to give to others. This world is so focused on “me.” We need to focus on “them.” Our children
need to understand, know, and feel what it’s like to impact someone else’s life
in a positive way. They need to see how fulfilling it is to give of yourself
and focus on a cause greater than yourself. It will give them something
meaningful, long-lasting, and deep that they won’t be able to get any other way
or by doing any other thing in life.
Our world has needs
so great that it’s hard to count them. There are so many hurting, lost,
lonely people out there. You may feel like you don’t have much to give – but to
someone out there, you have a GREAT deal to give! You can give your time and
your heart. You just have to look for the need and you’ll find it.
I’d encourage you if you’re feeling like you don’t matter
much or that you are often overlooked in life, to instead focus outward instead
of inward. Find ways to give of yourself to others. I bet you will find that value and love you are seeking in the process.
No comments:
Post a Comment