VOLUNTEERING – VOICE OF THE TOWNSHIP

Each year during this time, I reflect upon the many blessings I have received. I am so grateful that I am able to meet my financial needs, and that I can enjoy good times with others. When I think about the wonderful times I’ve had with family and friends, the memories bring me tremendous joy. However, it saddens my heart when I think about my loved ones who have passed on. As a result, I put forth special effort to enjoy time spent with others. Knowing that I can teach and learn when communicating with others makes me keenly aware that socializing with others brings me abundant blessings. When we value our past, value learning on our own and value learning from others, and are willing to share with others we have hope for a positive future. It behooves us to think about the things that we could have done better, and then use the lessons learned as instructions for achievement in times to come.

I was so inspired by the cheerful volunteers at the Rescue Mission and St. Mary’s Soup Kitchen on Thanksgiving Day. It was plain to see that many of the family leaders were instilling the charitable spirit in their younger ones. My heart leaped with joy when I saw the large number of individuals and families joining in on the festivities. I believe the occasions resulted in the volunteers feeling proud that they shared their time with others showing them that they care; and the partakers of the meals feeling grateful for being a part of such a joyous event. It was such a day of thankfulness.

It is great for one to appreciate the simple things in life. Sam Levenson was an American humorist, writer, teacher, television host, and journalist. His quote is inspiring; “For attractive lips, speak words of kindness. For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people. For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry. For beautiful hair, let a child run their fingers through it once a day. For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone.

People, more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed, and redeemed. Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you will find one at the end of each of your arms. As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself and the other for helping others.”

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Let us learn from the words of Mother Teresa, “It’s not how much we give but how much love we put into giving.” “Love is not patronizing and charity isn’t about pity, it is about love. Charity and love are the same — with charity you give love, so don’t just give money but reach out your hand instead.”

I remember November 22, 1963, when our country lost its President, John F. Kennedy. It was a horrific time in history. President Kennedy will forever resonate in my memory because he brought inspiration to America and to the World. He inspired me, and I felt like he was my friend. I remember his words, “And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country. My fellow citizens of the world: ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man.” It is fifty years later and we continue to honor his legacy; continue to love our country; and continue to hope for a brighter future.

Isn’t it beautiful that so many people from every walk of life are concerned about others, and are taking time to share with others in so many ways? What a wonderful world we live in!

Don’t forget to attend our Holiday Celebration on Saturday, December 14, 2013 at the Roller Dome South, 4540 Bluffton Road 46809, 12:00-4:00 p.m. There will be free skating, food, games, prizes, face painting, and dancing. You must have a ticket to enter the event. Tickets will be distributed at the Wayne Township Trustee Office, 320 E. Superior Street, Fort Wayne, IN 46803, on a first come first served basis until all gone; on Fridays (12/06/13 and 12/13/13) 8:30a.m.-11:30 a.m., and on Wednesday 12/11/13, 1:00p.m.-3:30 p.m.

Richard A. Stevenson, Sr.
Wayne Township Trustee
www.waynetownship.org