Two are better than one - Kelley Barton

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.”
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 NIV

This verse was lived out each day this week, CCLB’s Kids “Compassion” Camp. Thankfully, there was ALWAYS someone there to help each of us up, when we needed it. It wasn’t just “I ran out of this, can you help me” in the way that we “caught” each other. It was also shared conversations of personal life situations, goals, struggles and mending heartbreak.

Have you ever said yes, when asked to volunteer to fill a need, because you had the time and didn’t want to wrestle with the feelings that saying “no” would trigger? Then later wondered if you were up to the task? To be honest, that is where I was when asked to step into the role of Assistant Camp Director this year. I knew I could sail through the preparation part of the task, but not sure how the actual “at Camp” part would go. Little did I know, saying “yes” to this task would result in unexpected benefits for me.

My role was more administrative than hands on. I’m great with spreadsheets, organizing documents and emails That is how my brain works. I didn’t have a direct role interacting with the Campers, but was more focused on supporting the volunteers. We needed to make sure every area was covered, to flex when something was amiss and cheer on a huge cadre of people willing to spend 5 mornings a week to pull this off.

It has gone spectacularly. Beyond my expectations. The kids have had a wonderful time. Supplies were provided as needed. Adults and youth volunteers in place. We had our own Bill Nye the Science Guy, creative leaders in all curriculum areas and an artistic snack team. We had balloons, kites, water play with sponges, music, crafts, thoughtful and age-appropriate stories told through drama. Comradery were experienced by all the Kids at the hands of our wonderful Volunteers. 

But here is what I did not expect to experience.

So much kindness and flexibility. Bravery. Open minds. Spontaneous creativity. Warmth.  This photo epitomizes the kindness and warmth in the face of a volunteer, my favorite photo of the week.

I have been attending City Church for only a few years. I’ve gotten to know people the usual way – events at Bill’s House, leading a small group, and making conversation before and after the service. I felt comfortable, like I belonged.

Now I feel I have stepped into a whole new level of community. There is a big group of wonderful people that I didn’t just casually meet in passing but instead had the opportunity to see them in action and help them accomplish their tasks. Many of us don’t know that much about each other’s lives and stories, but the familiarity we will feel on Sunday mornings when we see each other might lead some of us down the path of discovery and deeper friendship. An opportunity I would not have had, if I had not said “yes”.

It is ALWAYS okay to not say “yes”. Don’t get me wrong. Self-care is important and I often write about it. However, if you do feel a tug to say “yes” to a volunteer opportunity, perhaps you will also be as pleasantly surprised at the unexpected benefits you will gain as I am.

Because two really are better than one.