Thanksviging & Giving Back -- Patients For A Moment

Ellie is thankful for glitter glue, Ellie B. (a kindergarten classmate), friends and family. I have a sneaking suspicion that the last two were written down only under great duress from a teacher. ;-)

Brittney asked people to blog on the ways they give back for the current edition of Patients For A Moment. I wanted to participate PFAM, but felt at a loss because really, how do I give back?

I don't really have a good answer for that. I make charitable donations, of course, as our budget allows, goods more than dollars, but we do our best. When I'm able, I volunteer in Ellie's school library a couple times a month. I've been trained in how to put protective covers on new books, but mostly my presence just allows the librarian to actually have time to go have lunch. It's not much, and sometimes just the sheer pressure of having to get dressed and look reasonably presentable is taxing, but I try. I think it's good for both me and for Ellie, in that I'm setting an example of volunteering and demonstrating that I think school (and libraries/books) are worthwhile despite my limited energy. I don't volunteer in the classroom because it would be way too much for me -- being around groups of people is enervating for me, and kids brimming with energy even more so.

The community I always wish I could do more to give back to is the chronic illness community on the blogosphere and other parts of the web. I do my little bits, trying to offer support and encouragement to others I come across in blogs or other places. I also try to help educate others by sharing links on Facebook or Twitter. But it's not much, and I'd like to do more. But I'd have to figure out what else I can offer, and time/energy spent pondering that is time/energy I don't have to offer my family and the communities I do participate in. 

Anyway, go take a look at Brittney's edition of Patients For A Moment, and think about the ways you give back to your community, whether it's your neighborhood, your school, the corner of the Internet's many online communities you inhabit, or more. She received several interesting contributions that are worth your time to read. And keep an eye out for the next edition of the blog carnival, which will be hosted by my buddy The Queen of Optimism. 

Meanwhile, I hope all my American readers have a happy Thanksgiving, and that those who don't celebrate it still have a good day filled with many blessings.