I AM A VOLUTEER An excerpt from Gifts by the Side of the Road by John Wayne "Jack" Schlatter I am a volunteer.

I give from a heart filled with gratitude for life. Even though it is silent, I hear the silent applause of God. In hospitals, I show people their rooms in such a loving manner. They know there is room in my heart to care. You can see me in schools, dispensing enthusiasm for education. In libraries, I catalog and process books for citizens looking for bridges to new ideas, dreams and discoveries. I come from many fields, and after work, I walk onto other fields, courts, and gymnasiums, to coach, manage and support the many young athletes, so they may be winners in the game of life. Despite my charitable nature, all my attention is on celebrating everyones potential. In retirement homes and villages, you will find me creating activities that help to make great memories and stimulate the development of new goals. Those with challenges are guided to new abilities fueled by my faith in their future. When you walk into a church, synagogue or mosque, I will be there welcoming and handing out programs. I will be teaching youth groups, raising funds and prayers. Because my life is so full, my presence helps hospice light the lantern for those about to leave this land for the unseen continent of eternity. This volunteering is a wonderful and fulfilling gift I give myself. The smiles and memorable moments I gather each day are priceless. My presence multiplies itself in new victories, increased efficiency and unending joy that I help to inspire. Every morning I awake with the knowledge that I am needed, and at eventide, I drift to sleep knowing that in many different ways I have made a difference and that my life counts. It is wonderful to give back after having received so much, and it is quite humbling to hear the silent applause of God.