the ground here and there. Even the elderly, who finally get to enjoy the beauty and environment of our community, can simply smile at someone who looked like they had a bad day. Sadly, most people these days don’t have enough time to volunteer. They complain about everyone being so competitive and never reaching out a helping hand. Then they get so depressed and feel so alienated and alone. They feel disconnected from the world, from others, from their community. And you wonder why, what are they doing? Better yet, what are they not doing. I’d like you to try an activity with me. Imagine, somewhere in the future,that you’re looking back on your life. Think of two thinks you’re glad you did. Don’t try to rationalize and reason, what are the first two things that pop into mind?Now I learned in psychology, that those two things usually have to do with a sense of helping, belonging, or loving. Maybe you’re glad you bought that dog, maybe you’re glad you married your husband or wife, instead of “so and so”. Or maybe you’re just glad you left work early today, it was beautiful outside today, and hey, it’s Friday. You got to come here and meet the Lions Club members, and even hear us speak. Whatever it may be, studies show that they’re usually not dramatic life-altering acts, but rather, simple random acts of kindness. Community service is not only an obligation to the community, it is also an obligation to ourselves. Community service satisfies and fulfills a basic human need, a need to help others and be connected. We may not think that we can make a difference, or that community service will make a difference in us, but studies show that community service builds self-confidence, develops a positive attitude, and makes us feel good. Studies show that 89% of teenagers said they volunteer because it makes them feel good. 81% said that they learned skills...
