Time and Giving Back

Yesterday i was asked to participate in a health fair at an assisted living highrise on Peachtree. I've been to a number of these facilities, and this one was one of the nicest appointed, wonderfully staffed places i have ever been to. i was asked to go to explain aromatherapy and reflexology to the people there...and give mini-sessions. At first they were hesitant and didn't want to try anything new. Some of them had never had a massage before, although many had. Finally, someone tried it out. Then, there was a line waiting. I hope that at some point i can get some paid work from doing these volunteer activities. Maybe writing is like that. You practice for yourself and others benefit, perhaps, and maybe later something springs up from it.

I think volunteering is essential to personal and spiritual growth. i don't know why, exactly. I figure, if everyone on the planet volunteered 20 hours a year or more to something, the world would be a better place to live. Since my children were small, i've volunteered to be room mother. i really don't want to go into the PTA and volunteer there. There seems to be too much politics. Kids like parties and that's what i like to do too. So, roomparent is great for me.

For the last three years i have volunteered at the BRAC center. Actually, i think it's called Absolute Wellness, now. It's a place where people who are affected or effected by HIV and/or AIDS can get free services. We're the holistic side of the program, which includes massage, reflexology, reiki, chiropractic care, counseling, and accupressure, and maybe other modalities that i'm not thinking of right now. The building adjoining the one i work in is the doctor's/pharmaceutical angle on treatment. Most of the people i see are long-term survivors...20 years or more. Some of them don't have any symtoms. Some of them have naturopathy so badly that they need canes, walkers or wheelchairs.

I have met the most beautiful people coming through those doors. i feel blessed to be the one giving instead of receiving the services. Some of these people have become my friends and at times, i've felt part of their family. The stories of their lives are beyond anything i've ever experienced. Their knowledge of death and living is something worth learning. It is a prilveldge to be part of their lives, and feel their gratitude.

There's similarities and differences working with these types of people. Both understand mortality. The elderly people i worked with yesterday live in a situation unavailable to all but the very wealthy. A lot of people with HIV/AIDs have no money left. Most of the elderly are like that, as well. All of their money has gone to doctors and pharmaceutical companies. I can't understand the business of pharmaceuticals...or insurance, and how it affects so many lives. That's beyond the scope of this entry and time i have to write today.