The Beauty of Volunteerism

I'm chomping at the bit to share photos of our Sangam event (pending photo releases) ... it's a "wide game" where Girl Scout Juniors have the opportunity to experience cultural connections by learning about our world center in India and the national heritage.

It gives a great picture of what one might call "non traditional" Girl Scout volunteers. These volunteers come together for one afternoon ... easy enough! And yet what a significant event for the girls.

I love seeing the range of faces and roles of these volunteers. The beauty is that anyone can share their wonderful world with another regardless of age or race or background.

• We have professionals sharing their international experiences.
• We have ethnic groups sharing their culture.
• We have young artists sharing their skills.
• Girls get a taste of Girl Scout connections worldwide ... literally with the cuisine.
• And of course, we have the ever ready "I'll help wherever needed" volunteer who gains a wealth of experience with each new opportunity.

Yes, this is a beautiful picture to me.

Discovery ... Smell the Roses, Study the Bugs

Of the three dozen people spending the weekend together at camp, one young girl noticed this grasshopper. The moments shared following this discovery became a highlight of the weekend for her and for me.

Discovery is such an important element to growth and life and accomplishment. I think it's no wonder that it's the first element of our Girl Scout Leadership Experience: Discover, Connect, Take Action!

Sometimes, revolutionary discovery isn't the in big things ... it's found in the tiny details others overlook. But it's those minute discoveries that can lead to a profound revelation. As a seed carries the potential for a forest within ... so discovery has the seed for life experiences and maybe even revolutionary change.

I think about Einstein as he imagines himself traveling on a light beam. How many people stop and take the time to do that? Our phrase "stop and smell the roses" might be more significant than we realize. When is the last time you encouraged someone (including yourself) to imagine riding on a beam of light? To stop and smell the roses? To study a bug? I think I'll take time to discover something today.

Lunch Break Play Break

I'm working from home again today so I can focus for maximum productivity. The benefit right now is that I have a built in play break (which I hear is healthy) any time I venture downstairs. I fixed lunch for myself ... and the 8 pups ... and the 2 big dogs ... then enjoyed this scene in my living room before diving back in to preparations for our Girl Scout Adult Recognitions. AWWWWWWW!