I thought this would be one of the easiest chapters for me to write on. I was surprised that it has been quite difficult. I was raised in a family where volunteer work and community service have been a way of life. I have really got a lot of enjoyment and fulfillment in being involved in service in my church and community.

After writing a blog about being out of work for two years, I realized that it has now actually been three years (since July 1, 2009). Sparkpeople has helped me to stay active, as has volunteering, but realized that for the moment, I am not enjoying volunteering because I need work. Although much good is done in our communities by people who are not wealthy and are struggling themselves to make ends meet, there is also a need for some stability in life to really find that fulfillment. I am needing to refocus to put more energy into getting my own life in order. For this season of my life, volunteering is not as easy as it has been at other times when things were more stable for me in my own life.