Kickstarter #10 - Missions, Humanitarian Work & Volunteerism

Life can be so comfortable, so secure. The irony is that self-sufficiency can draw us into a sense of self-contentment and consequently, a sense of dissatisfaction. Being contented with oneself and one’s achievement is not a bad thing in itself. It shows you’ve worked hard to get where you are and that the effort and sacrifices you’ve made have paid off. But do you then surround yourself with these creature comforts and ‘trophies’ to show for and say, “I’ve done it all”? Then just sit back, kick your feet up and idle the days away, leaving your possessions to rot, rust and waste away?

Life isn’t an activity meant to be lived by one. If you’re feeling that life is no longer exciting because you’ve fulfilled all your personal needs, think about going beyond yourself. What are the needs of those around you? Who is worse off that you can reach out to? Which person in your office department, in your block, your community could benefit from your outstretched hand?

Don’t have the idea that handouts are the sole responsibility of governments. For humanity’s sake, it is our moral and rightful obligation to help meet the basic needs of those who struggle day to day.When was the last time you dropped a few coins into the can in exchange for a sticker? And when you did it, was it with the idea that that sticker would effectively ward off other volunteers canvassing down the road? I’ve been guilty of that, and it takes just a little change in perspective. Perhaps we can determine we’d give ten dollars for the cause and challenge ourselves to seek out five volunteers through whom we’d support with two dollars each.

Beyond money and material possessions that we donate through projects like BB’s Sharity Gift Box and organisations like The Salvation Army, we can make ourselves available. We can serve others with the time, skills and strengths that we have. The National Volunteer & Philanthropy Centre will embrace a willing committed person with open arms because there are just so many needs to be met. More hands on the plow make light work.

By and large, we are an economically prosperous society with all our basic needs met and an unquenchable hunger of wants. Things works like clockwork here. Turn on the tap and there’s water. Flip the switch and there’s light. With a roof over your head and the comforts of life, this would be a dream for many beyond our shores.

If you’re sitting there wallowing in self-pity because you’ve literally got so much to brood over, start giving them away. Give yourself away to meet the simple needs of others.

Volunteer for a cause. Be a voice against poverty, join a team that helps build homes for poor villagers, sign up for a medical or disaster relief mission – there’s almost no end to what you can do, where you can render yourself and channel your resources.

Life isn’t just about you. Life is about humanity. Life is meant to be led collectively, not singly.

If life is getting you down, how about picking someone else up on the way?

PS: The author & wife jet off to Kenya for a church mission trip from 6th - 21st Aug. We ask for your coverage in prayer.