Last month’s too-horrific-for-words tsunami seared heartbreaking images into our collective Psyche and made many of us realize how fortunate we truly are. I’ve overheard some people admit guilt over their good fortune and to talk about volunteering. Well, don’t just talk about it – DO something about it.

But don’t volunteer out of guilt – volunteer out of the desire to help your fellow citizens. No one’s expecting you to rescue the world, so start small and start local. Think of your skills (organized, gregarious, efficient, patient…), groups or topics that interest you (underprivileged children, the arts, the elderly…), and problems that may have touched your life (cancer, drug abuse, domestic violence, hunger…).

I, personally, have recently been devoting a huge amount of time to organizing an annual fundraising party (hooch&pooch05) for a local Dallas theater organization (Kitchen Dog Theater). Of course, sometimes – when I’m exhausted, behind on work, or just want to go catch a movie – I question why I put forth so much effort. But I realize that I do so because it always pays off – for the theater, the community and for me.

Volunteering not only makes you feel good – it’s good for you. It puts life into perspective, puts you into contact with new people and new opportunities, and gets you out of your rut. So get unstuck and get out there!

In the meantime, keep PLiNTH & CHiNTZ on the tip of your tongue, the website in your Favorites, and your toes warm.

Laura McDonald , IIDA / ASID
Interior Designer / Founder / Connector
laura@plinthandchintz.com