Joy and pain

Who did that song?

Joy and pain; sunshine and rain.

It seem this describes the life of a volunteer. I love helping out. I've done all types of things to help where I can. I try to look at what needs to be done and do it. I don't need recognition, not even a thank you. You help because you want to. Be joyful in your giving!

Sometimes, I can't help but feel taken advantage of. Now, I have read the book "The purpose Driven Life" and I know that you can't let a little thing like someone else's bitterness stop you from from doing what is right. There is this great part in the book that talks about being taken advantage of as a giver.

I love the author's prospective "Whenever we have the opportunity we have to do what is good for everyone" -- Rick Warren, The purpose Driven Life

So, even when I am asked to do the unreasonable, even when the other person is being selfish, even when they are thinking of their own needs-- I will do my best to give.

When I started writing this today, I was really pissed off. I got a call and a request for me to do something for a group I volunteer for. Well, the call came in two weeks too late- I couldn't get the information they needed. I got the "Well, I'm just so busy I couldn't get to you sooner" I snapped back "Well we volunteers are busy this time of year too" I wanted to remind this person I don't get paid, as she does, I am just a helper.

Now after remembering my purpose, I'm glad I didn't say anything. Yah, I got the woman what she wanted, no big deal. It's done.

I need to remind myself sometimes it's really not about her- or him -or me -or them it's the bigger picture. There is a whole world out there that I can't control. I can only control myself.

Thanks, I feel better now.