The film Blue Miracle is predictable and it’s a bit cliche, but even for the cynics it does have its feel good moments. What the film does do is challenge us to think about what giving back means to us. Giving back, service, and volunteering can mean so many things that sometimes we get lost in the expectations, time commitment, and finding the right fit. What does giving back mean to you?
During the pandemic many people volunteered their time to bring food to neighbors, work at food banks, and reach out to front line workers with signs of support. This week I must have had my ear tuned into giving back because it seems like there were stories and opportunities from the smallest to the largest scale. In conversations with friends and my network these were some of the opportunities I learned of this week.
Which one of these acts of giving back and service feels like it might be a fit for you?
- Creating works of art for front line workers with Youth Art for Healing.
- Watching Blue Miracle and making a donation to Casa Hogar Cabo, the orphanage featured in the film.
- Buying diapers for the “Diaper Brigade” to ensure families have enough diapers.
- Sing for those in hospice with Threshold Choir
- Calling an elderly friend or family member who has not been able to see family for a long time.
- Sending a card to a graduating senior.
- Donating your time to a food bank through Feed America.
- Ride your bike for a fund raising ride for Food For Free
- Read a book to a child in your neighborhood.
- Sponsor a child at Point Reyes National Seashore summer camp to go on a backpacking trip.
- Water your neighbors plants who are going on vacation to be with their family for the first time in 16 months.
- Serve on a board for Cristo Rey New York High School
- Sign up for vacation with Discover Corp that focuses on purpose and service.
- Learn more about a wildlife species and participate in a Citizen Scientist project
Think about how you’d like to give back and where you see a small to mighty service opportunity.
Have a conversation with a friend this week about how you might give back together. Even a small act of giving back can make a difference.
The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.
