Last week I had the absolute honor of being recognized by the Marine Corps Base Quantico Base Commander for being a volunteer in my husband’s squadron. I do my best to participate in as many squadron activities as I can. It’s a great way to meet other spouses, Marines, and help out others. Of course no one volunteers for the recognition, but it is nice to be recognized at a special event with other volunteers. Over the past four years I have helped coordinate our ‘Meals on Wheels’ program where we have a group of volunteers who make homemade meals for families who just had babies, a medical event, or are struggling for whatever reason. I also coordinated our spouses fundraiser each Christmas. It’s so neat to see so many people step up and get involved. And I have made some awesome friendships because of it.
I know that some squadrons, or battalions, or whatever group you are with, are of different sizes and dynamics, but I can’t stress enough how important it is to get involved. Our squadron is huge. And that makes it very hard to get to know other spouses. But I’ve met so many amazing women, and men, by attending as many events and coffees as I could. Even if I might have introduced myself more than once to the same person… Eventually I will remember! The more times you see a person, the more you can build that relationship. My bestest of best friends are my military spouse friends! We can relate on so many different levels, and have been through some pretty tough times together.
What I really wanted to share with you from the volunteer luncheon is something that the Base Commander said to us. (and this is paraphrasing)
You all have a choice. You get to choose how you get involved. You can sit back and take care of you, your family, and your Marine… or you can take it a step further, and you can help others. And by choosing to help others, and volunteer, you become the key to our success. Much of what we are able to do, is because of all the hard work and help from all of you who volunteer, because you step up to make things happen.
I think this applies to many things in life. Not just in the military…. but also in your community.
You can live your life taking care of YOU… or you can serve others, and make a difference in the lives of those you meet!
In what ways do you volunteer?
