Michael’s Message - December Joy in the Journey & the Season!
Have you ever seen anything like this illustration? Note that these men are making their journey extra hard on themselves by pulling and pushing their wagon on square wheels. They seem to be sweating and maybe they are cursing about what hard work they are doing and how little they are appreciated or understood. They might even think the other one is not bearing his full share of the load. They cite the condition of the road, the steepness of the slope, the weight of the load, and the age of their wagon as reasons for their difficulty and lack of joy in their journey.
But what are they carrying in that wagon? They seem oblivious to the round wheels they need to make their lives easier and better. Perhaps someone has already suggested that it might be time well spent to stop the wagon, and make some “real wheel” changes.
Much study has been put into what makes things roll along smoothly and grow in organizations. Unlike that illustration, our Shipley Center has been rolling along well lately. Our current board, staff, and faithful volunteers are working hard, smart and well together! Our wagon needs to be able to carry all 1800 of us Shipley Center members in it, so I am proposing eight round wheels instead of four. Below are eight qualities or “wheels” that are key to the growth and success of organizations like Shipley Center.
To roll along smoothly this Holiday Season and always, you and I can:
- Be passionate about our mission to serve seniors and the community.
- Make sure that volunteers, staff and fellow members are respected, encouraged and appreciated.
- Help our Center be functional, accessible, interesting, timely and attractive in all we do.
- Participate regularly in fun and inspiring activities and events.
- Generously give of our time and means.
- Develop true friendships and a sense of community.
- Be civil, respectful, tolerant, accepting, and yes, even loving to each other.
- Listen attentively to each other’s ideas, opinions, and suggestions, without interrupting.
We should all ask ourselves this holiday season, “What will I do to help things run smoothly for others?” and “How can I have Joy in the Journey of life?”
One idea is to bring nonperishable food for the Food Bank collection box in the Center. By the time you read this, your Center may also have a “Toys for Tots” collection box for donations of new toys for needy kids. These are easy ways for us to show we care about those less fortunate in our community.
We can all smile more, hug those who want hugs, give more friendly waves, and share more words of encouragement and thanks.
If you can afford to make a special end of year gift of funds to help your Center with its current and future needs, and/or the construction of the new Health & Wellness Annex, please do so. We really appreciate all your generosity of your time and resources and participation, all which contribute to things rolling along smoothly all year!
May you and yours always have smooth travels on your journey, and a joyous Holiday Season!
— Michael
