If not you . . .

Sometimes, volunteering can be very draining.
It takes a toll not only on your spare time, and even your work time and family time, but also on your emotions and faculties.
There have been many nights of no sleep, and many days of simply running around in circles.
There have been plenty of "No's," "No Thank You's," and "Not at this time's".
There have been lots of empty pockets and empty hearts.

But one must persist . . .

If you want to make a difference, you really do have to BE the difference.
Lead by example.
Give freely of yourself.
Give freely of your time.
Give freely of your talents.
Give freely of your heart.
Expect no reward, no kudos, no grandeur. (That's what "freely" means!)

I have also been blessed with joyfully tearful stories of families we have helped.
I have been overwhelmed with thanks and gratitude.
I have been the recipient of prayers and well-wishes for philanthropic prosperity.
I have been astounded by "Yes's" and overflowing pockets and hearts so filled with an eagerness to assist, it has truly been amazing.

We are one little family.
Four little people.
We have raised tens of thousands of dollars.
We have helped bring joy to many children facing terrible odds.
We have helped bring awareness and opened the eyes of folks to a world they knew nothing about.
Who are we? We are no one special.
We just wanted to help.
If not us . . . then who?

If not you . . .