Get Over Yourself

The winter before my dad’s sixty-ninth birthday, he and his retired friend Fritz decided to clear away trees and brush along a canal just a few blocks from Dad’s house. Every morning Dad and Fritz bundled up and with their gas-powered chain saws blasted away the overgrowth on the slope next to the water. By springtime, they’d cleared a mile-long stretch six to eight feet wide. The next winter, with the help of a few more volunteers they recruited, they did 1.2 miles, completing the project.

Impressed with the canal’s new look, the Rock River Development Authority widened and resurfaced the path along the canal for bikers, walkers and joggers, and in July that year organized raft and canoe races. Then the Department of Conservation did some landscaping and added a ramp to the path for the handicapped.

Because of the initiative of two retirees in their late sixties, a beautiful new state parkway was created for the whole county to enjoy. Dad says the harder he worked those two winters, the better he felt and the more energy he had. “Doing something positive for the town makes me feel good about myself!” he added.

I know one thing, when struggles get me down the surest way to reclaim my smile is to organize an event for the residents of my neighborhood. Whether it’s a dinner at a favorite restaurant, a card game, pool party, or craft fair in the clubhouse across the street, doing something for others to enjoy is a blues blaster for sure. Doesn’t hurt to keep busy, either.

If you’re thinking, I don’t have time, that’s just an excuse. Remember the old saw about, “If you want something done, give the job to the busiest person you know.” It’s true, busy people are the most organized people.

Let's all think about it. Let's ease our struggles by volunteering. Ask somebody who does. They’ll convince you.