29 October 2011

Sometimes, the greatest gift that you can receive is a smile and a little bit of laughter. What's sad, is that not everyone appreciates just that, they always need something material to make them feel full and happy. But you know what? Money doesn't buy happiness...it never has, and probably never will.
When I volunteered today, it's amazing how much a little bit can go a long ways. I got to play around with this little toddler whose hand was just big enough to wrap tightly around my pointer finger. With his death grip, "awesome" dance moves, brilliant smile, and his innocent, quiet giggle, I was reminded of why I love volunteering so much. I knew that not only was I having fun sharing my morning with such a cute, reserved kid, I knew that he was happy to have someone to play with, talk to, dance with, and hold.
Lots of people only want to help others if they can get paid for it, while I go for the experience. I find that it's more worth while when you know that you're helping someone else. I don't see how doing simple things such as volunteering at a pediatric ward can be that fulfilling when you know that there's money involved. I'd rather pocket the memories that will last much longer than the money in my pocket will. They're worth more than a Starbucks' run to me.