You might have heard of the saying, “Sometimes, the quietest voice is the loudest in the room.” One of my passions in life is to give back to people and my community. February 17th is National Giving Back Day. If you are like me and enjoy volunteering and giving back, then this is a great day to remember. The lives we live can be very hectic and we don’t always appreciate everything we have. I know I’m at fault for this happening to me all the time. I always try to remember to be thankful for what I have because not everyone has the means.
Ever since I could remember, my parents taught me to treat others the way I would want to be treated. So far in life, this has helped me through a lot of struggles. I know times are tough right now for a lot of people. There is a lot of change taking place in our country and around the world. February 17th is a day to remind yourself to be thankful and give something to someone who may be less fortunate than you.
Last week, I saw a homeless veteran sitting under a tree. The man wasn’t holding up a sign. I asked him if he wanted me to get him something to eat and some water. The man’s face lit up. Buying him lunch meant so much to him. It wasn’t until I was making my dinner later that night that I felt the impact of what I did. I felt a rush of emotion come over me. I couldn’t imagine not knowing when my next meal is coming or having to go to a soup kitchen for three meals a day. Spending 8 dollars on lunch is something I do twice a week and sometimes I don’t even consider it a luxury.
For Valentine’s Day this year, the 55 and older community at my aunt and uncle’s house put together a special dinner at the clubhouse for all the residents, including a steak dinner, dessert, and a bottle of wine. A band will play music and there will be candles on the tables. I decided to volunteer with the Homeowner’s Association to help with the event, although I plan to stay far away from anyone because of COVID. Whatever the event calls for, I am more than happy to help in any way I feel safe.
To top off I also plan on calling an old friend who I haven’t spoken to in a few years to see how life is and how he is doing. Maybe it will make his day. Who knows? Just remember, giving back doesn’t have to be the biggest gesture in the world. Sometimes, giving back to others can help you too.
About Josh McDermott: Josh is a brand ambassador for Quantum Rehab®. He is a public speaker and has served as a goodwill ambassador for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Josh lives in New York and loves to travel. Click here to learn more about Josh.