This month is Valentine’s Day. This is the month one is supposed to let others know how much they are appreciated – and loved. I think that one of the big reasons for being happy and longevity is doing things for other people. I know I do a lot of volunteer work, but that makes ME happy.
My two children are grown and do not live in Naperville. And I am widowed. So I always say, “Naperville IS my family.” And I so enjoy doing things for their good.
Years ago, one of my good friends went to a retirement home and asked if there were any residents who had no visitors. So she met with two residents twice a week. She would read the newspaper to them, discuss current events, etc. Wouldn’t that be a shame if you were a resident in a facility and had no family or anyone ever come to visit with you? I always thought that was so wonderful of her.
One of the programs my co-chair and I started was RAN – Ride Assist Naperville. This is a wonderful volunteer program to drive seniors to medical appointments, stay with them, and then drive them home. We have about 50 drivers and are so busy we have to turn away riders each week. The advantage to volunteering for RAN is the pleasure the drivers have with their conversations with the riders. They have lots of touching and funny stories to tell. Also, our volunteer drivers can look at their computer and see what riders are needed. Then they volunteer to drive one when they have the free time. No time schedule nor commitment is needed. To get information, call (630) 864-3087.
I guarantee you will be happier when you show your love by helping other people.
Chuckle Time
Bad Advice: Phyllis Diller said: Never go to bed mad. Stay up and fight.
Good Advice: Every day, give a hug. Hugs do a lot to let the other one know you really do care about them.
