National Volunteer Week Inspired: My American Story

[ashkevran]

My American Story

I've written this personal piece as my own national volunteer week essay...

It is dedicated to David Soul, who asked those of us who respect and appreciate his work to express such sentiments, at least partially, in tackling issues and making a difference, in ways large and small. In his words:  “What I would want is that people who

Comments

[ashkevran]

Terri-thanks for sharing your passions. You have a lot of interests, and very worthy ones.

Now I keep watching the cat shelter stream...wanting to reach in and *pet pet pet*.

Thank you again!

[barancoire]

I'm just German and unfortunately I'm not that a practical person. I wish I was

[ashkevran]

You have touched on many wonderful and worthy causes, Bee-Angel, and made them personal to you. Thank you for sharing what you care about with me. And yes, the husband-church is definately another story.

Big *hugs* to you!

[ashkevran]

Hi sweet friend - I didn't mean to try and sound "inspirational" but merely to chart out the course my own life took. I know that you are working on connecting with causes you believe in. I know when you do, you will find satisfaction, enrichment and (yes) frustration at times...you have so much to offer. Any group you connect with will be fortunate to have your passion and industry.

xo

[didihutchimpits]

I really love David Soul's mindset. Thank you so much for sharing your
American story. It was so interesting for me to read your experiences, memories and different feelings of your childhood.

I don't have to share such a story like yours.

I'm only a volunteer worker.

Hugs and love Didi

[ashkevran]

Hi Didi - I am very taken with David's views, too. It was my pleasure to share, and I am grateful that you took the time to read. You bring a lot of light and love into the world by being *you*.

*hugs*

[mybuddy1975]

I want to thank you for sharing such a heartfelt story. "Ambassador of peace and friendship", what a beautiful and fitting title for you. I was especially moved by your words about Christina. My only niece, Caitlin, was adopted from China. She is bright and beautiful and amazing. She is also very special because she made me an "aunt", and is the only cousin my own children ever will have. My husband ( who also became mine in 1987:-) is an only child and my brother and his wife do not have children. So, Caitlin is "the" cousin. She could not be more my sister (and brother in-law's) child, no legal document could ever exist that would make that child any more or any less their daughter. She is the apple of their eyes! Love transcends all else.

Thank you again for allowing your words to inspire.

[ashkevran]

Thank you so much for reading and commenting. :-) In Peace Corps, we were told over & over that our mission was to promote was best, optimistic, idealistic, and hopeful about America to the groups we worked with in our host countries. It was a honor to serve. And, like just about every Peace Corps volunteer I've ever met, the experience changed my life in many ways.

Thank you for telling me about Caitlin. Such a gift for your own children, and yes - you are right...parenthood is about so much more than biology. In my world, no child would ever be more mine than Christina.

Big hugs and love - xo