I forgot how good serving can feel. I was fortunate enough to be reminded of that when I participated in SERVE Noblesville with HCLA.
I admit I thought for a very long time about not volunteering for several reasons. The biggest being “I don’t have time, or I can’t take the time off work.” The next reason was the classic, “Someone else will do it.” And then, the “I don’t know if I can do that,” translating into “I don’t think I have the ability to do something like that.” When I stopped arguing with myself, I realized that my excuses were selfish. I am so fortunate that my employer gives me volunteer hours each year and this was the perfect opportunity to use them. I also knew that if everyone had the attitude of someone else will do it, that nothing would ever get done! Finally, I had the epiphany that I didn’t have to be perfect at something, I just had to step out in faith that I could learn something new.
I am grateful that I decided to take a minute to examine my reasons and my heart. I got to spend some time with people I enjoy, like Diana, Carol, and my classmate, Trish. While HCLA is an amazing program and learning opportunity, there is not always time to hear personal stories, but on this occasion did. I got to meet Todd, from the Class of 2023 and Dena, from the Class of 2014. Where else would I have gotten that chance?
The work was an adventure! We built raised garden beds for Teter Organic Farm. It was outside of my comfort zone to use power tools and physically build something. But it was not just “something,” these beds will benefit people with accessibility issues that may not be able get down on their knees and work in the dirt. We literally brought the dirt up to them. It also helped Farm Manager Katy Rogers, who never stops smiling, and the amazing work she does at Teter with food insecurity through donations to food pantries in Hamilton County. On a side note, I learned how to use a miter saw, power drill, and to swing a sledgehammer!
Even though our HCLA team completed four of the beds with our new-found skills, we weren’t able to complete the final two beds because of time and lack of donated tools for two groups of builders. The farm is looking for additional donations of drills, measuring tapes, levels, and other tools to help with its mission. Reach out to Teter and Katy Rogers for specific tool needs at their website HERE.
I am grateful that I listened to the still, small voice in my heart that nudged me to try. It reminded me of the big picture, that life is not all about what I need to get done in a day. I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to find a way to serve others. Thank you to Patrick Propst and the SERVE Noblesville team for all they do and the opportunity to serve the community.