Friday, March 26, 2010

Doing Something for Someone Else

My church puts on a wonderful Easter production every year.  The Thursday night before the shows start for the general public, the church has an Outreach Night.  Free tickets are given out to those that cannot afford to pay for the tickets.  The church also puts on a free dinner for the those who are disadvantaged and in need during this night.   Invitations were sent  to various non-profit organizations around the Twin Cities, organizations like shelters for the homeless, addiction recovery groups, women's shelters, etc.  There were about 600 people there.  These guests and their families come for a free dinner and then get to experience an awesome Easter production, a dinner theater experience.  Many of the guests at the dinner may only eat once day, or not at all.  It was a wonderful way to show some love to those who are in need.

Last night, I volunteered to help with the dinner.  I did various roles: I played host, showed people to their tables, helped a little old lady with her meal, served milk to the kids, cleared tables, refilled water jugs, served cookies, just about whatever that needed to be done.  Then after the guests left, we all helped to clean up.  I stuck around to help the catering crew set up tables for the next day's dinner.  I learned how to set up a table cloth the right way (there is a right way!), set a place setting, and stuff coffee mugs with  napkins for decoration.  I never realized how much details there are to set up according to banquet standards.  I was pooped out by the end of the night.  But it felt good.

It felt good to do something for someone else, some stranger even.  After being so focused on this IVF cycle, it was nice to think of someone else instead of myself.  It also makes me realize that I am so blest, to have a home, a full tummy every night, a wonderful husband, and numerous things I take for granted.

8 comments:

  1. Yes, we can find some peace in helping others. You are a gem to help your church during a time when your heart is heavy, but I know the distraction must have felt good.

    We do have to take time to look at the many blessings don't we.

    Hang in there and know that I am praying for your strength.

    HUGS

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  2. I've found that helping others brings me comfort as well. I think that it is absolutely amazing that you are able to help others when you are going through this. You continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.

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  3. You are a gem putting your energy into something so positive in such a trying time.

    You are in our thoughts and prayer.

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  4. Just wanted to let you know you are in my thoughts and prayers.

    Reaching out to others always helps me get through rough times too.

    Praying you find some peace in your heart.
    xoxo

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  5. There's just something wonderful about knowing that you matter to someone else--you make a difference...and you absolutely did to each and every person you came in contact with!
    What a testimony and what a blessing.
    Praying for your heart!

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  6. Good for you! It takes a lot to step outside our own sadness to help others in need...that was very sweet of you!

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  7. You are so blessed and when you keep thoughts like that only wonderful things happen to you... Good Bless You

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