Feeling useless because you haven't found that dream job yet?
Every day matters while you are waiting, and volunteering can be a small step towards discovering the kind of employment that will not only pay the bills, but also incorporate that peculiarly human need for a sense of "calling".
A patient, whose name will remain nameless, at the Hospital where I do volunteer Chaplaincy (visiting the sick) was perched at the threshold of his room. He sat in his wheelchair, eyes peering towards his future, wearing a pink Tee and a hopeful countenance.
I learned that he was waiting to be discharged, always good news in a place where that isn"t necessarily the order on the chart.
He spoke in a pleasant and upbeat tone about his imminent homecoming, and how some hospital representatives would be accompanying him to make sure his home was set up so that he could manage his daily tasks.
I smiled, but didn't inquire as to the type of special accommodations he would need, as we Chaplain's assistants are trained NOT to ask about specific diagnoses...
As we ended our little chat and I wished him a safe journey, my eyes inadvertently lowered, and I saw for the first time the bandages of a recent amputation, mid calf. Smiling again and saying goodbye, I walked away with a profound sense of awe. This cheerful and kind man blessed ME with the privilege of receiving his strength, gratitude and conviction that no matter what, life is something to look forward to.
