Although I've been out of a job for a little over a week, for some reason, more than ever I felt compelled to donate again to the local mission so that the homeless may have as happy of a Thanksgiving as currently possible, California State Parks Foundation, WWF, Sierra Club & ChildFund International.  Sometimes, a slap in the face from Reality opens ones eyes and heart to the world around them.  I have no job currently, but I have love, family, friends, a kitty, a roof over my head, a car, books, DVDs, TV, music and a heck of a lot of freedom.

This isn't a judgmental post, nor is this a LOOK AT HOW AWESOME I AM post, far from it. Helping those unable to help themselves in whatever way possible is the least I can put back into that which gave me life, the earth.  And probably, I could be giving more. I could be volunteering or even search for a job within such companies that offer help for children and animals.  Unfortunately, my emotional makeup is such that I would, within a short amount of time, collapse under grief and a feeling of helplessness and anger were I to undertake such a job.  However, I'm looking into volunteering.  My sister-in-law volunteers at The Gentle Barn in Santa Clarita, where she and my brother and I grew up.  My brother and his wife care just as much, if not more, than I do about animals.

Really, this post is a reminder to myself. I must remember that no matter what Life flings my way, I've got it pretty stinkin' good.  Instead of hiding and moping on my bed, looking for ways to help others and the darling little animals is much much more rewarding than a bowl of Self Pity Ice Cream. Although... Oreo Cookie ice cream sounds mighty good right now.