J: I know if I wasn’t given this service project I wouldn’t have acted on my own, because of my anxiety.

AMH2020 student

“The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” 
― Ralph Waldo Emerson

Even though that quote could be used in any situation. I think it fits well with what I volunteered for. Tallahassee Veterans Legal Collaborative is not something I took lightly. This was to help veterans try to sort out legal matters, so I did not know what to expect when I got to the place.   

The first time I stepped through the doors of the American Legion I was beyond nervous. I’m not really a “people person”, so I was really stepping outside my comfort zone.  My body was shaking and trembling. However, when I got there and got settled all of that went away. The people were and the work they gave me was fun. 

This work involved scanning and copying. Once an attorney got done with a in-take of a veteran they would give me the file. I would then scan in the file into a flash drive that would be used to easily access the information. Besides doing that I was given the job of copying. When somebody needed something copied I did it for them.

Meeting the participants like I stated early was nerve-wreaking, but once I knew them, and they saw my work ethic. We warmed up to each other. I met all kinds of people from the attorney to college professors. Unfortunately, I didn’t meet any of the veterans yet that I was helping.

Just a few weeks back TVLC held a luncheon for all the volunteers and people who helped, but can’t be there all the time. I was invited and was given a certificate for all my hard work. To let you know this made me feel good.

This brings me to my next point. I love helping other people. This has given me a chance to help our veterans who help protect us. As a society I don’t think we help them enough, so this my chance to learn everything I can. One day sooner rather later I will be able to help more people then just veterans. I believe through the power of music I can also bring a change. Look at the Beatles or U2 they were able to bring change.

I believe if I continue with TVLC then I will be able to help out many people who need the help. This hopefully will inspire more people to help out with people who need the help. Then there be less pain the world.

I am very glad I was given the opportunity to work and help out. I know right now doesn’t seem like much, but one I hope I’m doing the in-takes. I know if I wasn’t given this service project I wouldn’t have acted on my own, because of my anxiety. This has helped me overcome some of my fear with being around other people and to coming to grips with myself. I’m happy with my opportunity and I will continue help out with TVLC every other Thursday.