I’ve been thinking about this all week since seeing the Happy! movie (it’s screening over the weekend in Melbourne at five locations…definitely catch it if you can). You see, in the film, there’s this Danish guy who used to be rich and fancy and he volunteers at Mother Teresa’s Home for the Dying (which is just such a blunt name for a place…no softening the blow!). He stays 17 years.
Every day he feeds dying, infected men. Just keeps them comfortable until they die. Every day. You can tell he used to be fancy. But you can tell he’s also, now, inordinately happy. His face radiates a settled, sorted, determined joy.
Anyway, at the end he says something like this:
“This life we’re given, it’s a loan…we’re given if for 80 years as a loan. How good is it to be able to pay it back…with interest?!”
Every bit of myself agrees with this. We’re not handed anything permanent. We step into our lives briefly, ride it, then leave. You can choose to take this as a free ride – use and abuse and dump at the end. Or you can choose to see a purpose. I think we all seek a purpose. Every happiness study says this is key. The key. We need to know why we’re here, we need a framework so that we know how far we can spread ourselves out.
And this week I’ve been thinking it could just be to pay back the generous loan…with interest.
I’m starting to look around for some volunteer work…see what pops up naturally…not forced…any ideas? Help me out here…What are some of you doing to pay back some interest which also brings you joy?
As in good ideas that from the...
Wow jinx driving home from the gym behind a bus saw an ad for telecross a part of the ted cross where vounteers are given people to call at the same time evryday to make sure they are okay. You know like the elderly who are lonely or unable to get around. Perfect for me stay at home mum with three kids one still home ! Have been a big fan of oprah and constantly inspired to help others by her and others. Am hoping to volunteer next year in some capacity with helping refugees assimilate or something like that! So anyway love this post there are so many things you can do sarah, you could even start your own thing I reckon cheers Lisa xx
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June 24th, 2011 at 2:01 pm
I just got in touch with Telecross to see if I can volunteer as well. What a great idea! I’ve been considering volunteering for some time and this seems like a good way to start. Thanks for suggesting this!
x Marla
PS Volunteering is good for your OWN health as well. Win-win!
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June 28th, 2011 at 11:28 pm
Stephanie Lorenzo
steph@projectfutures.com
Hi Sarah,
My name is Stephanie Lorenzo I am 26 years old and two years ago I started PROJECT FUTURES, a non profit organisation geared towards getting more young people involved in charity as part of their social lives. What I am passionate about it anti-sex trafficking after reading Somaly Mam’s book – “The Road of Lost Innocence”. Have you heard of Somaly Mam? She was a Camboidan sex slave sold into the industry at a young ago and now 40 years later she saves lives and brings back dignity that has been taken away from so many. This email is in response to your recent blog post about wanting to get involved in something. After hearing about the atrocities that so many young men and women are forced into in both developing countries and right here in our own backyard, I knew I needed to do something. PF has been run 100% voluntarily for the last two years and two months ago I came on board in a part time paid role as there was SO much momentum building on what we were doing. Just to give you some facts, we have raised over $350,000 in the last two years through running events and parties and also creating online viral awareness campaigns. Our website, press kit, graphic design campaigns and films have all been produced pro-bono – through harnessing the skills and talents of Gen Y and showing them that charity is not just about giving money – we can achieve so much by working together towards a common goal and having charity as an essential part of everyday social interaction. Please check out our website http://www.projectfutures.com
Also I was wondering if you would like to get involved in some way? We have PF bloggers (mostly media students and volunteers that love to write about things that matter – I was wondering if you wanted to re-post some of your blogs within our blogging network? OR if you wanted to be involved in some other form. I will send you Somaly’s book in the post.
Cheers and hope to hear from you
Stephanie Lorenzo
0402 637 637
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Oops red cross not ted cross!
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June 24th, 2011 at 10:55 am
I am picturing a service that gives teddy bears to underprivileged kids called Ted Cross… that’s actually a neat idea! hehe
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June 24th, 2011 at 1:44 pm
Whoops, my comment was meant to be a reply to this – I would totally support a charity called Ted Cross!
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June 25th, 2011 at 9:19 am
Telecross is a wonderful thing, I access it for my Mum when I need to go away and am not there to check on her.
She loves having someone else to have a 5 minute chat with. Mum gets her call in the morning, but it can be at any pre arranged time.
Another great way to volunteer is Riding for the Diasabled, to see the kids have so much fun brings great joy.
June 26th, 2011 at 12:39 am
Oh how cute mia, yes that would be lovely !!
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Sarah, I’ve been doing the same thing.. looking for purpose, other than the one I perform now of course as a father, lover etc. Hence why I’m drawn to your blog. I’ve had a moderately successful career so far, I have a beautiful wife, gorgeous kids, live in one of Australia’s most amazing landscapes…. yet I “feel” like I’m missing something. Like I have a role to pay… a responsibility to make things better.
I’m a huge fan of the Bicycle and can envisage it’s future role in fixing a few of societies ailments.
I think I’m drawn to Bicycle Advocacy… it seems to be the recurring theme lately. I particularly like the recycling of bikes, which help kickstart small businesses in Africa.
Anyhow, you touched a nerve, and it tickled… just thought I’d share.
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June 24th, 2011 at 11:05 am
Get tickled…the bike thing is important. I’m in Sydney next week to do more on this myself!
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June 24th, 2011 at 6:22 pm
Good on you Gavin. A lot of guys I know seem to get to that content point in life then decide it’s boring and do something to stuff it all up, only to regret it later and see what an amazing life they had. If only they had done something constuctive for their souls instead, how happy they would be. Do it:)
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July 1st, 2011 at 5:34 pm
Thanks Mel, since I wrote this comment, I’ve set the wheels in motion, so to speak Still not sure where it will lead, but I’m sure I’ll be enlightened by the journey.
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I wanted to surprise my friends and family and make them smile! I sent them each a little heart with a message of love to tell them how I love and appreciate them. This was the beginning of what has become the Travelling Heart Project. I go to bed each night and dream about these little hearts and their messages travelling all around the world, spreading love and warm-fuzzy vibes
I now have people adopting hearts and joining in the fun of spreading love from all around the world. I sometimes reflect that it is funny that with an idea, a bit of creativity and an ancient sewing machine I am in a little way connected to people and spreading happiness all over the world. I wonder if one day a heart might find it’s way to the Dalai Lama, George Clooney, Oprah … or maybe even back to my letter box 
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June 24th, 2011 at 10:43 am
Wow how wonderful! !
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June 24th, 2011 at 11:39 am
That is such a lovely idea. And just maybe someone in emotional need might just receive a heart at the right time. Love it!!!
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June 24th, 2011 at 4:43 pm
Beautiful Zetty! Let us know how we can get some travelling hearts to release on their journey of love, Cate
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June 26th, 2011 at 5:20 pm
Hi Cate, Check out the Travelling Heart Project website. You can read messages being carried by little hearts out there travelling the world, get more info on the project, adopt hearts, read about featured hearts and more. http://www.travellingheartproject.blogspot.com. Super glad you like the idea of my little project. Be fun to have you join in the fun of spreading love
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I run a project in NW Tasmania called Produce to the People. We gather excess produce from people’s backyard gardens and give it to families in need in the community. It is such a simple idea but means we as a community look after each other. It started because I had too many tomatoes in my backyard garden one year and couldn’t give them away because my friends also had an abundance. Now we gather as much excess home grown fruit and veg as possible and make sure it doesn’t go to waste. We also plant snack gardens in Primary Schools so kids get to see their food grow and get unemployed youth to help build them. It can be really simple to make a difference. Go to http://www.producetothepeopletasmania.com.au or find us on facebook if you want to know more.
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June 24th, 2011 at 11:06 am
That’s gorgeous. And sensible. Snack gardens -that’s superb!!!!
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June 24th, 2011 at 11:43 am
This idea has come to my mind many a time especially when I’m putting a box on my front fence with produce and a sign saying “FREE”. I often wonder how many people in my neighbourhood have an abundance of produce that they could share with others but don’t, not because their selfish, but because they are not connected with their neighbours. It’s a terrific idea and one that more neighbourhoods should start. I just might look at starting it in my neighbourhood and giving it to the local neighbourhood house who can in turn give it to the needy. Well done. Love it!!!!
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June 27th, 2011 at 8:22 am
Feel free to contact me if you want any more info on how I did it here! producetothepeople@ymail.com
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I have volunteered since I was very young, since my parents did as well. When I am not volunteering, it feels like Im not doing enough to help!
For my own interests, I volunteered at a wildlife rehabilitation centre, which involved the care and feeding (and cleaning!) of native australian wildlife who were displaced, injured or sick. I also moved onto doing their education programs, which was very rewarding – especially when you meet a child a year after you did a talk for their class, and they remember everything you told them about the echidnas, possums, joeys, bobtails etc.
After I got sick with cancer, I started volunteering for organizations who helped me. I volunteered my time, until recently, to SolarisCare in Perth, who offer complimentary (and complementary) therapies and support to cancer patients and their carers.
I also offer my time and photographic talent to CanTeen, who supported me a lot during my illness.
I think if you find something you are interested in, and resonate with, or have some history with, then you can bring a different dimension to your contribution. Seeing your current skills as something to contribute, rather than just your time, can also be extremely beneficial too.
Through my years and years of volunteering work, I have found it extremely rewarding, and it makes me feel happy that I am able to contribute to the love and support of the community. It can be hard, and tiring, and heart breaking. However, it lifts your heart and makes you glad to be alive. Cant wait to hear what comes to you!
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Hi Sarah
I’m a writer, mother, choir member/organiser and general dogs body who never gets paid. All my work is voluntary. I don’t even get paid to write (see latest: http://www.abc.net.au/unleashed/2768956.html)
But one of my jobs is working with the Sydney Street Choir. Its fantastic, spending time with people who are way less lucky than me. They have their concert this weekend in Sydney and it has been really hard work getting them to this point. But great fun and very rewarding. The combination of music, singing and helping out: it’s magic.
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Being a stay at home mother to 3 young children and having a husband that is often o/s I find it hard to give any time to an organisation/charity at present. Instead I volunteered at my local kinder including my time as Secretary. I now volunteer my time at my daughters’ school at the uniform shop and as class co-ordinator. My husband and I give of our time to our neighbours (repairs, assistance etc). When all 3 children are at school I can then give time to local charities. We also sponsored a child through East African Mission Orphanage established by an Australian family 14 years ago and I hope to one day travel and give of my time to assist their wonderful work in taking vulnerable children dumped in the streets of Kenya. We give of our time what we can within family constraints and as our children grow and we gain more free time, we can give more of ourselves to others. http://www.eastafricanmission.org/
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This is a great post Sarah. A topic I had just conversed with a friend with. We are both self-employed and sometimes there are large chunks of time between work – time to think = time to send ourselves crazy. I think human beings crave a sense of purpose and some measure of result. We want to produce, to touch, to make a difference.
I live in the States and there are more housewives on anti-depressants than not – it’s disturbing. They have no sense of purpose.
I don’t know that I agree that we have understand why we are here. We’re here, that is the point. The point of life – is life itself. The meaning of life is the meaning you want to give it.
There are so many opportunities to volunteer and to help – soup kitchens, homeless shelters – have you followed any of David Eggers work over here? You’re a writer – you would totally relate and find purpose in his mission.
Good Luck.
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June 24th, 2011 at 4:45 pm
I think they are about to open a story factory in Sydney based on Dave Eggars 926 Valencia. 2 Fairfax journalists. It is a great model in so many ways.
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June 24th, 2011 at 8:33 pm
Thank for the info Cate. I am happy it is being picked up in Australia. It’s a really clever and engaging model. I think Sarah would rock it actually.
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Sarah, the information you share has added so much value to my life. It’s led me to meditation, to food awareness and new recipes, to great stuff to read, to watch, to participate in. Almost everything you post about resonates with me in some way and has expanded my mind. And then this, exactly where I am at in my life. The process of finding the thing that fits is illuminating. I know it’s there, all in good time.
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Wonderful! I also volunteered at Mother Teresa’s house of the dying over twelve years ago while in India and feeling particularly sorry for myself as I couldnt get out of dehli to meet friends for Christmas- best thing that happened to me caring for dying women too old poor or sick with no family to care for them, washing shirt sheets by hand and lifting frail bodies onto stretches. Was a good slap in the face and a wake up call to be bloody grateful for what I have. Perhaps it’s time for another call- petty problems and silly issues obscuring what is most important in life- offering ourselves to create, help and love wherever we feel drawn.
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June 26th, 2011 at 9:19 pm
Full respect to you..it would be tough work!
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..shitty sheets…
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I would totally donate to Ted Cross. And the patron could be Super Ted!
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Hi Sarah, I am 42yo with two young children, but I too volunteer at a hospice – Karuna hospice – at the moment I don’t do too much with the patients, I help with fundraising and market stalls etc but i know it is my destiny to, one day, help with the nitty gritty of helping people die with dignity and comfort. thanks for the post. Dee
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I think your greatest strength applied in the volunteer space would be mentoring young girls. Particularly with writing.
Perhaps helping girls (and older women) to re-write their resumes and cover letters for job interviews. Especially those women out of the workforce for many years after having children or girls who are educationally disadvantaged.
Alternatively helping girls/women with fictional writing or journalling – anything that cultivates personal expression to build self-esteem & confidence. Writing and reading are great escapes.
And remember Sarah, your free blog does a lot of volunteering work already!
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June 26th, 2011 at 12:44 am
Here, here! !
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June 26th, 2011 at 9:21 pm
Thanks Paul, I’ve been thinking about doing something like that…an ebook…or some lectures or soemthing
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I think Paul’s on to something… using what you’re great at (writing, communicating, open to new ideas) to help others tell their stories and perhaps, if relevant, re-story their lives.
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I try to incorporate volunteering into any travel that I do, not only does it enrich the travel experience but by helping others brings about incredible life experiences that makes you a more grounded and selfless person. It opens your mind and heart in ways that maybe a typical “holiday” wouldn’t.
If anyone is to visit Chiang Mai there are some very special hill-tribe orphans at the Children’s Shelter Foundation (http://www.childrens-shelter.com/).These kids are amazing they grow all of their own fruit and vegetables on an organic farm, incredible!
Some of them have been tortured and a hand full of them deaf (due to incest amongst the hill tribes) then brutally disowned as they are disabled. Heart wrenching stuff but they’re happier than any kids in the western world. Go and stay with these children it will change your life. It will make you appreciate all the small things, and bring some sunshine into these kids lives.
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Could it be that through a simple mis-spell, a great idea is born? I too would gladly support the Ted cross. In fact it brought to mind a skit by Billy Connelly where he talks about religion and as a child going to church and praying to the big holy cross eyed bear in the sky called ‘Gladly’ as so many prayers would begin with “gladly, the cross I bear….”
I know with my own children, they still adore their favorite bears. So much comfort can be found in a soft little thing to hug, that is always with you no matter what changes and challenges life brings. God knows there are way too many children out there doing it very tough in various ways.
I stumbled across another simple way to brighten the day of some elderly people sitting on their chairs in the park on a day out from their nursing home. As I walked past at my usual brisk morning walk pace with my two (v cute) little dogs and said good morning to them all , I suddenly caught a look from one which made me stop and go back. “would anyone like to cuddle or pat the dogs? I asked. Well…. We stayed for a good half hour where they were passed around and fussed over and stories were told about beloved pets given away before the nursing home, most commented that it had been years since they had been able to play with a pet. They became so animated, their excitement almost childlike and the enthusiasm and stories and gratitude that arose from such a simple thing made not only their day but my entire week. If you have a friendly puppy or dog and see an elderly person alone on your walk – stop and say hello. I promise you, it will make you both so happy.
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Sarah THIS is why I love your blog. Inspiring. Love it.
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I’m a teacher, and was feeling pretty disillusioned with the job, and a few years ago fell into special needs. This year I’ve been working full time in Special Needs, and absolutely love it.
I work harder than ever before, and my job can be physically and emotionally draining, but I am so much happier. I laugh. I play. It’s incredible.
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I write my website where I impart my wisdom and the things I learn as I go along my life, as well as feature people who follow their dreams, all in the hopes of inspiring others and helping people to grow.
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I go wwoofing! I feel like I’m making a difference in someone’s corner of the world. Plus it’s a very frugal way to travel. The sense of freedom I get from just living out of my backpack has not been matched in any other part of my life until i realised this kind of learning/working travel has become a large part of my life. It came out of me wanting to see a bit of my backyard alone but not wanting to slog it out in retail all summer.
I’ve just come out of uni exams and am leaving for my next wwoofing adventure on Monday so this post me so so happy. Reminded me of why I do what I do.
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June 25th, 2011 at 5:26 pm
Sorry what is wwoofing?
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June 25th, 2011 at 7:51 pm
Willing Workers on Organic Farms! You can check them out here: http://www.wwoof.com.au/
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Hi Sarah
Indigenous literacy.
I would like to spend a couple of weeks at a time teaching aboriginal kids in remote areas.
I would like to see a system set up which allows teachers to do this.
(Rather than a system which sends people out there indefinitely only to see them burn out)
I would like to see further acknowledgement of the benefits of bi/tri lingual education in relation to indigenous australians.
Instead of forcing them to dump their own languages for English … why can’t we encourage both ??
I would like to see more indigenous people actually running this country.
How is that going to happen ??
mw
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If anyone wants to work with autistic children, check for a family running a Son-Rise Program in your local area. Us Son-Rise families are all over Australia and we are always in need of volunteers to help bring the world to our children who find it overwhelming to go out into the world themselves.
Even though I am at home with young children, a travelling husband and run a home-based program for my 8 year old son, I volunteer and have for as long as I can remember. It brings so much value to my life. It started when I helped my Mum make chocolates for the fete of a special needs residential house when I was 9 years old.
The trick is to use your passions, be they animal welfare, cooking, writing, mentoring, sport, conversation, organisational skills, organic food, recidivism etc and match them with an organisation that interests you and requires those skills. There are literally millions of opportunities to give back.
Go for it! Nxo
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Hi Sarah,
Ive done some volunteer work for Conservation Volunteers Australia and highly recommend it!!!
Lots to choose from to help our flora and fauna friends
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Love the conversations you start, Sarah. This one is a cracker. I would like to do more volunteer work and this has opened my mind to some ideas that I hadn’t considered so thanks.
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It’s not exactly volunteering, but this year my New Years Resolution was to leave some change everytime I use a ticket machine/public phone/vending machine. I like to think that my spare silver coins can bring a whole lot of happiness to someone’s day.
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