We have all heard stories of how women helped during wars by carrying water, tending to the wounded, or helped feed and clothe the soldiers.
History is full of examples of times when people helped others. Following religious beliefs, society standards, and their own caring hearts, people have volunteered to help friends, family, neighbors, and even total strangers throughout history.
During the early years of the United States, it was common practice for plantation owners to send slaves out to watch the roads for travelers. They would invite total strangers to partake of the plantation's hospitality. Some even continued this act of hospitality throughout extreme financial hardships or even to the extent of giving up their own bed to a traveler wishing a night's rest.
For many of us, we have only seen this type of spirit of helping others in person through observing an organization that helps the needy. Some may have even seen an old movie where folks came together for a barn raising or to help a family in need. Some have even been lucky enough to have a nice individual stop and help them when they experienced car trouble.
When the events of the world tend to drive us into the safety nets of only our close relatives and friends, we miss out on opportunities to experience the same heartwarming compassion that our ancestors felt often. We are so carried away with trying to make our dreams come true, that we don't try to help others. When we get so involved within our own lives that we don't realize that someone needs our help, we are the one that ultimately misses out. We miss the opportunity to allow our heart to grow and never even realize what we are missing.
Volunteering doesn't have to be a thing of the past. Don't turn your back on the idea of helping your family, friends, neighbors, or even a complete stranger. Safety must be a consideration, but don't let fear rob you of the glorious joy that can be found through helping others.
