Skip to main content

Featured Volunteer: Mary Maki-Rich

I'm sitting outside right now doing my Beyond Limits homework. So I am in The Zone. I want to answer the question about WHY I do this. "Why" questions work for me. They make me think deeper. My life word is "significance." I can't live without it. Since I retired from being an ED nurse after 43 years (actually, it is precisely two years ago today!), I have searched for my significance. I did some volunteering with Acts of Kindness on the Joe Rodota trail and saw firsthand what it is like for homeless people to survive in their plastic tarp hovels. As a triage nurse in the hospital, I never had gotten to witness their situations. I only heard about their problems. Part of me didn't believe it could be that bad.

Walking on the trail after a rainstorm where everyone's belongings got soaked, I saw what it was like to be out there in the cold and rain and wind. It was horrible. Just horrible. That's why I do what I do. A friend and I used to bring a coffee cart once a week down the trail. Everyone, and I mean, everyone was grateful and super polite. My family is all back east, and I try to look at all these folks like my family. After this COVID thing settles down, I hope to get out to the encampments again. I am grateful to Kathryn and the Center for coming up with this idea of hot meals for those who need them.

Being a part of this team has increased my confidence in ways I didn't expect. And I needed that.

With gratitude,

Mary Maki-Rich

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Meaningful Opportunities to Connect

Many in our community have shared how much they value meaningful opportunities to connect. If that sounds like you, these events offer the perfect way to gather, share, and enjoy something special together. First up is the Bonsai Garden Visit & Luncheon , a peaceful retreat where you can explore the art of bonsai while enjoying a delicious meal. For those who love bold flavors and cultural experiences, A Feast to Celebrate Ukraine is an evening of traditional dishes, sparkling champagne, and a tribute to resilience and heritage. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a celebration. And finally, An Italian Evening Under the Stars is a night of romance, laughter, and incredible food. Picture twinkling lights, fresh pasta, and fine wine, shared in great company. These unique experiences are just three of the 18 available in our Nurturing Our Community events. Bidding starts Sunday, April 6th—bid early and bid high to claim your seat! ____ Event #104   Opening Bid $30   ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Jail Ministry Gratitude

  We would like to publicly recognize and celebrate the incredible dedication of Susan Bennett, Rosalie Sulgit-Shay, and Tamarya Hulme - who have tirelessly served in our community’s jail ministry.  For the past six years, these women have committed themselves to visiting incarcerated individuals every week, bringing with them compassion, hope, and spiritual guidance. Their unwavering presence has provided comfort and a sense of dignity to those who are often overlooked, offering a light in some of the darkest moments of these individuals' lives. Their work is a powerful reminder of the impact that loving-kindness, faith, and consistent support can have in transforming lives.  Let us all take a moment to honor and thank them for their extraordinary service and the difference they have made in our community.   Thank you.
2 comments
Read more

Meet Artist Lorna Ho: Finding Inspiration and Embracing Imperfection

In this heartfelt video, artist Lorna Ho shares how the Center for Spiritual Living, Santa Rosa, has been a source of inspiration and spiritual growth for her as she navigates life's challenges, including her struggle with hearing loss. Through meditation, prayer, and daily affirmations, Lorna finds strength and gratitude, using her creative process as a means of expression and healing. Lorna also talks about the Japanese concept of Wabi Sabi, the beauty of embracing imperfections in art and life. She reflects on how her best work comes when she lets go of perfectionism and allows ideas to flow naturally, just as life unfolds. Watch the video to hear Lorna’s inspiring story and discover how the Center has played a vital role in her artistic journey and spiritual practice. You won’t want to miss her unique perspective on creativity, resilience, and finding beauty in the perfectly imperfect. Thank you, Lorna, for helping launch our 2024 Giving Intention season with your personal stor...
1 comment
Read more