Saturday, March 15, 2008

Slice of Life Challenge #14 - Impact

Last night our church hosted a Volunteer Appreciation Night. Our worship pastor had asked to interview me. First of all, I was shocked...I had no idea what I would say about being a volunteer. One of the questions was how have I impacted others. I was at a loss of words. In order to answer that question, I had to ask others. I chose to ask of my girls from church. She's currently in Australia studying abroad.

She wrote me an e-mail and when I read it, I was blown away. Abe chose to read it last night at the Appreciation Night. Thankfully, I had heard it before, otherwise, I would have bawled on stage. Many people afterwards told me they had cried as well.

But, that night was not about me. It was about thanking others for what they do. It reminds me to thank others for what they've done for me. It reminds me to honor those who have served me. It reminds me to tell others the difference they've made in my life. If I don't tell them, they'll never know.

Sometimes we just want to know that we made a difference!

6 comments:

Juliann in WA said...

Wouldn't it be great if each of us took a minute to tell someone else how they have impacted our lives? I think we are too quick to complain and not quick enough with our affirmations. Thanks for this post. I am feeling called to action.

Deanna said...

YEA! Sounds like it went well, yes?!! :)

Anonymous said...

It's good to focus on the impact of others in our lives. Sometimes, we get so caught up in the daily world that we forget that.
Thanks for yet another reminder.
Kevin

Jen Barney said...

What a wonderful evening! I am so happy for you! Thanks for posting this.

BK said...

Now I would like to see that letter.
Bonnie

GirlGriot said...

How wonderful. I agree with Juliann about how quick we can be with complaints and not with affirmations. When I compliment or acknowledge people (not nearly as often as I could), they are always surprised ... We need to work on reversing this! Thanks for sharing your story.