They're out there.... the do-gooders. People who have used their personal trials in life to help others. I believe trials come into our lives so that once we overcome them, we can use our experiences to help others in similar situations. There is healing in helping others I believe.
I went to Dana-Farber last week with a friend who has been instrumental in fundraising for the Jimmy Fund ever since his daughter battled and overcame childhood leukemia. Not only has he raised a lot of money for the foundation, he brought in toys, dinners to the families, and donated computers to the kids who had to spend Christmas day in the hospital. A real-life Santa Claus.
I know a woman who overcame a horrendous abusive relationship in which she was literally shot at by her husband. She survived the bullet wound, however her daughter, who took a bullet as well, did not survive. Her young life came to a screeching halt. Heartbreaking and unfathomable for her Mom to have to face life without her daughter. Even in her tremendous pain she pushes forward and volunteers to help other victims and foundations that raise awareness for domestic abuse. She is the bravest person I know. She is a saint.
I have a friend who conquered addiction and has been sober 27 years. She turned her recovery into a mission to help other addicts and families affected by addiction. Her struggles with addiction became her purpose in life. She is a role model to many.
Who do you know who has used their personal pain to help others? What do you admire most about that person?
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Who do you know who has used their personal pain to help others? What do you admire most about that person?
Giveaway: Enter to win a necklace from Splenderosa Jewelry!
Visit inspired designs. or email me to find out about having a custom blog designed.
Wisdom indeed, to turn pain into passion for others in order to do GOOD. That is a GOD-THING and it is the ONLY thing we can ever do to be healed of the pain. AWESOME WORDS today dearest. Anita
ReplyDeleteWhat terrible lives some people have, I really admire their strength. I used to babysit for a family, their 13 year son was murdered and they set up a foundation in his name to help young people from poor backgrounds achieve their full potential. I don't think I'd ever have that same fortitude.
ReplyDeleteI wouldnt call myself a do gooder, but I have helped dealing with the loss of a child, and with weight loss to a few.
ReplyDeleteI think these are actions that just come "from a good heart". Things we all should do all the time:)
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It's a very important issue you're talking about Debby..I admire people who overcome their pain and bad experiences by helping others in the same situation, But sadly not everybody does that, you need to really be a selfless, special person to dedicate yourself to others in need..
ReplyDeleteI know of a few different situations in which people overcame the seemingly "impossible" and turned it into a postive somehow. I think most people at their core are good people, people who want to do the right thing. I always have loved what Albert Einstein said " a person who does things that count normally doesn't stop to count the things he's done". The important thing is everyone does their personal best to be kind to others. Some ways will end up being quite profound like the people you desribed above and others more subtle but doing it is what's important.
ReplyDeletewow I could never imagine so much pain, its admirable to put this pain in good use and do good for others, selfless and really admiring
ReplyDeleteI have many brave friends who have beaten the odds! People (including you) are incredibly brave and strong. xx
ReplyDeleteIt's always amazing to read about people who overcome such terrible situations to triumph & go on to help others & be a role model...I applaud them all xoxo
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I think that you my friend can be included in this group called Do-gooders! The inspiration; elegance ; determination and openness you share in life's transition is wonderful for all no matter what the source of the transition. Seeing the beautiful images you share, the wise words ... is motivation to not give up and keep going!
ReplyDeleteI think God knows each of our strengths and sends us on detours so we can be better equipped to help others. Many blessings to you my friend. xo HHL
This is a wonderful post. Thank goodness for these people, and their incredible strength. It's heartbreaking to hear about the terrible experiences they have had, and to be able to turn that around and find somethings positive in all the pain is incredible. Makes you think twice about all of our petty complaints, doesn't it?
ReplyDeleteBeautiful & inspiring.
ReplyDeleteLove those photos ! So inspirational :)
ReplyDeleteIm just having SUNDAY WISH-LIST ,and I would be really happy if you could join it :)
I don't think I know anyone that has gone through that much but I see do gooders all the time. Maybe it is just picking up someones papers, or helping out a neighbor with their lawn but to some people these small things can be a huge blessing. I like to think that the world is full of them :)
ReplyDeleteI honestly don't know of someone has suffered in the way you describe and gone on to turn it around. I know some who just suffered and weren't able to pull themselves together. But go on living what "looks like" a normal life. I keep hoping though.
ReplyDeleteI feel you are someone who embodies these qualities. You open up and let us in....and I know you are touching lives and impacting people that you don't even know.
Here's to doing as much good as each of us can!
xoxo Elizabeth
Debby-
ReplyDeleteSuch inspiration here. This makes me think about what I need to be doing in addition to choices already made.
Beautiful images today.
Hope that your Thursday is wonderful.
Teresa
xoxo
I enjoyed this post - such inspirational women. Thank you so much for following me. I have just been scrolling down your pages - lovely bog! I'm your newest follower!
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love the last one! a the umbrella!!!
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Thank you for the reminder of the good in the world. It's always there and we should do our best to try to add to it.
ReplyDeleteGoodness. You friend who overcame domestic abuse just made me want to cry. How on earth she kept going is beyond me. What a wonderful tribute to beautiful people.
ReplyDeletei'm def a "do-gooder" - people tell me all the time "i'm too good" " i'm too nice" "your a saint" -- i always extend myself to ANYONE in need - i feel it's my duty if i know to do ... downfall i put myself last - but in the end my soul is in bliss for helping!
ReplyDeleteVery inspiring stories, thanks for sharing! xo
ReplyDeleteI l♥ve your pics.
ReplyDeleteGreetings Sabine
I want someone to bring me a basketful of tulips on a bicycle.
ReplyDeletebrett
I know so many people who have gone through trials and to go on to help others. I do believe that that is what makes life good, is to help others and To serve others.
ReplyDeleteDebbie , What a great post ! yes, I have people in my life I admire and am in awe of what they have endured and how they have handled it.
ReplyDeletehave a pretty day,
kristin
you make my day..... following you.
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this post makes me extremely happy - especially the macaroons!
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