There is a big difference between volunteering on your own and being told to volunteer. Yes, in the end a needed job is accomplished, but the work that’s put into it is quite different. When you volunteer from the bottom of your heart it means a lot more to be doing something.
I just started volunteering at our local dog pound. I live in a small town so it’s not like there are a lot of dogs there at the same time, but there is still a need for people to help clean, feed, water, and just show them some love. I absolutely love going and looking after the dogs in my spare time. It means a lot to me to know that I am doing something good.
If I was told that I had to go and clean up poop everyday and not get paid, I might not be quite as willing to do it. I would feel as if I had no choice in the situation. As human beings we love to know that we have the ability to say no to something. There would be a part of me that might resent the fact that I have to watch these dogs.
Luckily, the choice to work at the pound is all mine, and I love doing it. What I’m trying to say is that volunteering shouldn’t be something you do just because you have to. It should be something that makes you feel good in side. It should be something that, when you get done, you always have a smile on your face because you know that you are making a difference. Even if it’s a small difference, it’s a difference none the less.
becomingmissb 