I confess: I have begun writing a post many times in the past to talk about why we Overlook stewards give of our time, energy and essence to this endeavor, and why it matters.  Each time, the words simply didn’t come, and so I would delete the post without publishing it.  Today, I’d like to attempt to speak for the team on the notion of why we do it.

There are many benefits to being of service, to giving back to your local community or the global good.  These may include recognition, accolades, credit, and even occasional material rewards.  You tend to meet some of the best and most interesting people when you volunteer, and it’s a fantastic way to network.  Plus it looks great on your resumé!

There are also physiological benefits to volunteering as long as you perform it willingly: studies show that acts of service encourage your body to generate telomerase, an enzyme that helps to heal the ends of your chromosomes.  And if you work the trails like some of us, it’s an excellent source of cardio and weight bearing.  🙂

This is all wonderful, and reason enough.  Far beyond that, however, I can tell you that there is a stunning depth of satisfaction in one’s life that is born and thrives when one devotes oneself to these acts even in small stints.  It doesn’t matter what cause you choose as long as you help to drive it towards the best outcome.  Push the spinning wheel a bit further onwards, chop wood, carry water. Just jump in somewhere and you will eventually find the work that jives with what you have to offer.  As you do, you and your comrades, you will find the real reward, the one that words can’t describe.