Everyone has a story to tell in this world, of the first time they did something or an event that changed their lives. On a regular basis we tend to take other peoples stories for granted, and the second they begin talking think of an input on something they did or wanting to tell a story of your own. This is no one persons fault; we just get carried away with ourselves. We must be cautious of this because we may be neglecting something of immense value.
Loeb state “other people’s stories can expand our view of the world,” that there is more than just a valuable trait to learn about someone, when they explain their story. Through listening to others we can learn something about ourselves or even find a door that we did not know was there before. There are many opportunities out there that can be life changing and eye opening for us. In previous chapters we have discussed others unwillingness to try and find community service work or their ability to give up and stay within their own little world. Through hearing others tales of life we can find hope in our own life to make a difference and maybe even join them in their area of service. Even if their story has nothing to do with us the obstacles they overcame is what is important. That they made a change in someone else’s life forever and no one could ever take that away from them. No one person knows everything that is going on in this world good or bad, but through others we can find opportunity in our own lives to help others and ultimately allow ourselves to grow.
I would hope that the story of my community involvement has just begun to be written. I have had a limited time to get involved but I am quickly making up for those years I spent at home doing nothing. In high school a close friend of mine had cancer and while we were sitting around sulking we threw out the idea to make a change and help those even less fortunate then our friend. We began a two year campaign through relay for life and even started our own charitable foundation. In spite of all other obstacles I alone raised over $6,000 dollars in less than two years. Unfortunately my dear friend passed away right before Christmas but our organization lives on and we will never forget how hard we fought at his side. This has been a story that has shaped my life thus far and I hope that other ones are to follow in which I can make an even greater difference. I have only been at PVCC for a short time but have not yet missed an opportunity to get involved. Through classes and clubs on campus my decision to help others like my friend in need of a helping hand, have helped me to grow in ways I have never dreamed.
I would hope that if one day a political autobiography was written on me, that it would show everyone how any average Joe like me can be a part of something special and make a change in the world. Without listening to others guidance I may never have gotten this far, being a good listener has truly been a credit to my growth.
Wow, i never knew that you had such an amazing story to tell. And im glad that i took the time to read what you had to say, because now i can see that you are capable of great things and that there are great people out there in the world, who is willing to make a change.
ReplyDeleteYou are so right listening to other peoples stories is truelly a big part of growing up and you will never know who you might meet and who you might get to know unless you give them the chance to talk.
Robbie. First off, excellent job. What you said about everyone getting caught up in their own stories is so true. We hardly ever actually Listen. sure we may hear the words they are saying, but we are already formulating a response or a story of our own to top theirs. We really could get to know one another better and in turn, work together in a more cohesive fashion. Very well done sir.
ReplyDeleteRobbie, I'm so sorry about your friend, but I think it's a beautiful thing that you are still able to be a source of inspiration and hope for those who still have cancer. I think it's a blessing that you have already discovered that you are capable of making change, and actually have the guts to go out and do it. I know that you will continue to make this world a better place throughout your life. You rock dudeee
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