Making a Difference Goes beyond the Holidays…

Wow, it seems like this year is really flying by!  I know that sounds so cliche’, but I find myself wondering where the time has gone so quickly.  This past summer, I worked on a grant project focusing on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) with underprivileged kids (elementary to high school).  The kids’ math and science levels were tested and they were placed in appropriate groups depending upon how advanced or how behind (sadly) they were.

I worked with the character development instructor who is a pastor at a local church.  Each week we received a new group of kids – for 7 weeks.  Though I worked with the same program last year, I focused more on technology and not so much on character building.  Working with the kids this summer was a real ‘eye opener’ for me.  I know that as adults we tend to complain how kids lack character these days.  But for the most part, I saw hard working, dedicated kids who really care about others and want to do something with their lives although they do not always show it.  Sure, there were a few ‘hard cases’, but we refused to let them ruin for the others.

You may be wondering what the heck character has to do with a STEM program, but you would be surprised how much character influences science and technology.  If people had no ethics in these areas, where would we be?  But I digress…

Okay, getting back to the point of this post…  Well, each group had to complete a project by the end of the week.  The project focused on community service and the impact it has on today’s youth.  In other words, they had to explain why it was important for them to participate in community service, whether it be in their school, neighborhood, or beyond.  What I discovered was that these ‘tough’ kids bright, intelligent, full of ideas, and most of all – empathetic.  It gave me more hope for the future.

Though I am always striving to help others, after this summer, I began to think that maybe I could even do more.  So, I am focusing quite a bit more on volunteering in my community.  In addition to feeling like I may be making a difference, I get to meet people from all walks of life.  More than ever, I feel a sense of purpose.

I know this post really had nothing to do with toys.  But heading into the holiday season this year, my focus is a bit different.  Yes, i plan on spending plenty of time with my family, but hopefully I can make someone else’s holiday a bit brighter this year.  Last year, I ‘adopted’ a disabled child for the holidays.  It felt good knowing that her Christmas would just a bit happier.  Though we never officially met, she did send me a wonderful thank you note.

So what is the purpose of this post?  Well, basically that each one of us can touch someone else’s life in a positive way.  And no, you don not need tons of money to do it.  Believe me, I have been struggling for quite some time now as have many people.  Why not start making a difference right now, continue through the holiday season, and right into the rest of your life?  Remember, it’s often the little things that count.

What are your thoughts? I would really love to hear them. Post a comment below…