Small things that make me feel good...the big one is helping others...

I always believed strongly in giving back to the community. When I think of it, my folks never really mentioned that at home. In fact when I said I was volunteering, they wanted me to earn money or do other things. We don't formally practice any religion, but I respect others in their viewpoints and ideas. I guess we are mix of confucianism and buddhism (even then not really).
Through the years, I have always felt a sense of satisfaction by exploring the world, learning new cultures, eating different foods, watching interesting films, show, art and traveling. But another thing that I really enjoyed, spending time with people who like to help others. Even if it is a small thing, I feel it is better than nothing. Like recently, I adopted this gal from Korea. I met her on the plane ride home (Narita to Ohare) and this is when I had my sprained ankle (I know I am remiss on my Asia journal here). When I told her to go to the "visitors" area during customs and immigration, little would I know I would become good friends with her. Later on at the gate heading to Boston, I see her again. With our mix of Konglish we spark a simple but interesting conversation between the both of us. We were unable to grab a seat together, but we separated. When I got off, I waited for her to take her to the baggage claim. (I love helping others and telling others on things to do, see and eat in Boston! Or in whatever capacity I can help others with what I know.). I called her host family and we found her ride to them. I thought it was the last I would see her. But as a traveller, I always appreciated the kindness of others. I always try to give back!

I am always the person who will walk by if someone is taking a pic of someone---I'll ask them,"Do you want to all be in the photo?" Or if anyone is holding up a map, "I will ask, can I help direct you?" Maybe I am in the wrong field and job. Hmmmm. I just have too many interests.

Anyways back to JH, since then I wrote an email saying nice meeting you. She eventually called me and since then we have hungout a few times. I have taking pride in showing her the USA in Boston . From seven courses of fish, NE Clam chowder and fried calamari, european hot chocolate, Bartley's hamburger to dim sum in Chinatown we have done alot. Of course it goes without saying I took her to my two FAVE museums in Boston MFA and Gardner.
Or the friend whose friend started a library for kids in Ecuador and needed English books for kids. I made sure to send a few along. Or the fund raisers to bring up awareness for Asian Americans on Diabetes or to raise funds for local organizations that foster ESL, job training for immigrants, affordable housing as well to funds for battered Asian women and children to fighting hunger in the local area. These are the things that make me feel alive and great! Another thing I did recently was interview a local student for my alma mater. Wow I was so impressed by the HS student I interviewed. She was very articulate, intelligent and composed but she could have been an "at risk" kid to not graduate if it weren't for the Boston busing program and her perserverence and having great mentors to influence her there is more to life than being knocked up in your teens without a father.

There are many ways to give back, do something today! It can be done in many ways, by helping a person, or working as a volunteer take your pick! It is good to get out and do things!