Saturday Reflection – by David Nelson

Saturday – February 27, 2021

So many people want to help but don’t know what to do or where to start. Start small and go see — come for a visit and look around to see if the organization and the people look like they are having fun. If people talk to you and welcome you or show you around. If they do not do so or are “too busy” to talk — then perhaps rethink that organization. People that smile and welcome you and look you in the eye is a great sign.

Sign up for a shift and go volunteer. At our pantries, we like to provide a good experience to those that show up for the first time. To go away a little bit tired, to carry some bags and the like. Feels good to use muscles for a good cause like people who are hungry. Come back, and see if you feel different or if you want to learn more. Take on a different job and maybe meet someone coming for the first time. We don’t want to be too busy to welcome someone new. You never know who might come through the door.

Finally, reflect on your experience. Think what it means to not have enough in this country. As you get to know people, it is not out of laziness or effort — but the systems of which they exist and do the best they can. Most work or if they can’t work, then they hustle to make it work. The more you show up the more you see. For those of us with privilege, we will never fully understand. But we can work side by side to make a difference now.