Every now and then life offers up little experiences that have the potential for huge impact. Such was the case when I volunteered for a few hours at the Transplant Games of America. TGA is the coming together of transplant recipients and donor families from across the US. There are about 1,000 transplant recipients participating in a variety of sporting events in the Transplant Games of America in Grand Rapids (concluding today). But it’s more than just a sporting event, which I discovered last night.
I volunteered for the “coffee hour”, which I assumed was simply setting up and serving coffee and cookies – sounded like something I could do for a couple of hours after work. What I didn’t realize is that the coffee hour was targeted for donor families affording an opportunity to share their stories, support and encourage one another, make steps toward healing from grief and heartache. What I thought was simple coffee and cookies was actually three amazing hours of joy, honesty, tears, laughter, encouragement, hugs…simply appreciating and valuing life and loved ones.
My takeaways from last night…
- I believe in volunteering – opening myself up to new experiences and new people makes me a better person. Try it, you might like it! (And I know the MI Titanium could use lots of volunteers on August 26 – http://mititanium.com/)
- Inspiration can come when least expected.
- I’m seriously thinking about becoming an organ donor.
What little life experiences have had a significant impact on you lately?
One Comment
How nice! I am also pondering my next event to volunteer. I’ll look into your recommendation. As far as becoming an organ donor, be sure to discuss your decision with family members. After all, despite checking that little box on your drivers license, they would have final say.