Volunteering

One of the best way that I have found to help yourself, is by helping others.  Maybe it is because I live in the volunteer state, but giving time to organizations that you like it a great way to better your life.  I can not list all of the great things that I have received by volunteering.  Some of the simple things are: free meals, clothing, contests to win prizes, and even a trip to another country.

I never would have visited the Czech Republic without volunteering

Of course, the most important and valuable things that I got were intangibles. Volunteering at the animal shelter gave me lots of puppy and kitty love.  I have made many, many friends. I have also gotten to experience things that I wouldn't have otherwise.

Good Times, Good Friends

The important thing is to volunteer for things that are meaningful to you.  “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.”
― Mother Teresa

Relying on others

One of the cool things that I am learning is to ask for help from other people. I am working on making a necklace for someone. I am having trouble getting the clasp correct. Normally I would go to the store and buy something or trying something else. Now, I have asked a teacher at school to help me because she is adept at beading. She was extremely helpful and patient. I am also working on a prayer shawl for someone else. I realized that I wanted it to be big so I asked another person if she still had the big needles she used to and could I borrow them. She said if she could find them. She also let me borrow a piece of paper and pen so I could copy down a recipe instead of having to buy the magazine.
I am also more giving since I'm not buying. I have given out stuff that I know I won't use like some missized filters and dog toys and even made a couple of simple things that I think people will like and delivered extra food. ( I seem to have that alot now :-))