saying yes

whenever

• a 4 a.m. ride to the airport is needed

• an all day competition is looking for a volunteer judge

• a meal train for an acquaintance arrives in the inbox when payday is a week away

• a persistent caller leaves several messages to “call back okay”

• a colleague mentions that they haven’t had breakfast and / or forgot their lunch

• a group text needs to be sent about last minute change of plans

• an appeal for someone to host a gathering is issued

• an invitation is given to be the notetaker or “someone to report out for the group”

• a volunteer is requested to cover for a pregnant staff in the winter since the role involves walking to the bottom of an icy hill

• a family member texts a picture of an item with a lifetime guarantee that you gave as a gift in which the photos shows the item has worn through

a battle begins within the conscience between the person I want to be and the person who tries to be that person while shielding resentment that burns and bubbles.

cooling that heat is gratitude for

• a dependable vehicle

• opportunity to reduce the stress of another person

• financial stability to offer assistance

• organization and pre-planning

• a home that has amenities to host others comfortably

• physical ability to navigate ice and snow

• lifetime guarantees on quality products

• being a part of a community

• material for reflection