Today a group of about 10 co-workers and I gathered at Peabody Elementary School to volunteer. After about three hours painting a library the color of a Pert Plus bottle, I felt like a modern day barn raiser. We came, we greenified, we left.But the more I think about the barn raising metaphor the more broken this comparison seems. In 18th & 19th century America, townspeople swarmed to help their neighbor when he most needed their aide. Not so today. When we hear that a struggling city school could really use a coat of paint, we don't all rush to help. Only 5% of my office volunteered three hours of their Saturday to make these kids' days a little brighter (literally).
Sure coat-of-paint:school does not equal barn:farmer. But neither does it take as much time and I could do so much more. I need to spend a little less time considering what I'm giving up and a little more time considering what the fruits of my labor will mean to others.
stage direction: step off soapbox, walk off stage, get active in the community.
1 comment:
October 15, 2007
Dear Staff and Friends,
There are so many creative, enjoyable, and selfless acts that tremendously enhance our school. It is difficult not to get caught up in the every day stress and commotion with school, work, and home but I wanted to reflect on the unique opportunity we had to share on Saturday. On behalf of the parents, students, and staff we graciously acknowledge the generous acts of painting our library and hallways. Your unexpected contribution delighted us all. Please let us know if we ever could return the favor. It does take a village to raise a child!
Best wishes in your future endeavors.
Federico Flores Jr.
Principal
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