I had a great opportunity to visit The Salvation Army, thanks to my friend Tony and his Kiwanis connection. Mike Servais gave a short presentation, served us lunch, and we got to tour the facility. A couple of their facilities, actually, and we also received a driving tour of the East Nashville neighborhood they serve. Their scope and their calling are enormous, but so is their passion.

And now I’m wide awake… but it’s not morning!*

I can’t sleep because I’ve been thinking about how much NEED there is. One reason I got into grant writing was because “helping people” seemed a noble career… but it’s easy to become overwhelmed.

If you find yourself in similar straits, my advice is to focus. Accomplishing any goal is made easier if you have a clear mission. The Salvation Army could use your help, but if you have a passion for education, focus your resources at your local schools. If you serve meals to the elderly in your rural neighborhood, and that feeds YOU, keep it up. Don’t let the Need distract you from serving where you can serve best.

They are depending on your passion. We all are. Don’t burn out from spreading yourself too thin. And don’t lay awake nights!

Be free,
Jeff

*With apologies to Connor Oberst, and thanks to Alissa W. for introducing me to Bright Eyes!