Notes by La'Rue

I don’t like to see people struggle. When I do, I try my best to do something about it. Largely in part, because I was once in their shoes. Everyone either knows or has read about my poverty story, so it’s only natural that I have a soft spot for the less fortunate. Even if that wasn’t the case, I’d still help. Aside from writing, giving back (whether it be financially or time), is something that I enjoy doing, particularly volunteering. I was a staple figure in the soup kitchen at my local Salvation Army. When I first volunteered there, it was part of a “give back” initiative from my church. When I worked in the kitchen, I’d often look out the exposed window, that gave a clear view of the food bar line. I don’t know which was worse, the countless amount of people looking for a meal, or it being the only meal they had.

I would go into the freezer to cry, because I didn’t want them to see me feeling sorry for them. I didn’t want them to think that they were a charity case, because I’m sure that’s how they’ve been treated most of their life anyway. I felt so helpless, because all we had to offer them was a hot meal, when clearly, they needed so much more. Especially considering, that a number of them slept on the lawn behind the building. My reminiscence of that place is sad, but there was some joy. In fact, my greatest joy was being able to serve them. From that moment on, I wanted to continue giving back, so I went to help almost every Saturday. I donated clothes and shoes to the women, because they were in dire need of them. Although they needed a lot, I sensed that they needed something way more than materialistic things. More than anything, those people needed love! They needed to know someone cared, and I’m so grateful that God allowed me to be that someone.

I promised God that when He took me from barely enough to overflow, I’d allowed the excess of my blessings to spill into the cups of others. I promised Him that when He’s done “preparing that table” for me, I’d offer a seat to others. I promised Him that when He opened doors for me, I’d walk through and instruct others to follow my lead. I promised that when He brought me from the bottom, I’d reach back down and say, “Quick, give me your hand.” I promised that since He provides for my needs, I’ll give back to those in need. There are a lot of things I promised God, but I now I want to make you a promise. “When you give, it will be given unto you, shaked down, pressed together and running over”. Many people don’t want to give, because they feel it’s not much. However, no amount is too small, because to the person who has nothing, “little will mean a lot” http://www.notesbylarue.com/littlemeansalot.

Be the reason someone’s cup goes from empty to full!

Until next time my NOTE takers!

Deetra La’Rue