Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Volunteer Work

Molly at Tour de Cure, July 2010
Volunteering massage service is rewarding.
 
I began volunteering massage as a student at OSM in order to gain experience. Students are not allowed to accept tips, students cannot receive payment or gifts for massage services. I was a little disgruntled about this, but stuck to the rules.  Now I see things differently. Massage is something I offer to people. I am good at it and I love it. 

I've volunteered massage a couple of times this year.  The first was the American Diabetes Association Bike Ride called "Tour de Cure". It happens all over the US. Here in Oregon it is held in Hillsboro around the end of July. This year was my second time at the event. The second was at the New Seasons company picnic held at Oaks Park mid August.

Today I received cash and a gift card in the mail. What a surprise! The cash was from the Tour de Cure Bicycle Ride tip jar the gift card was from the New Seasons Market company picnic. I hadn't expected to receive any sort of payment for the volunteer work I've done this year. That's what made it so special to receive it.

I realize that when I am expecting payment it is nice to receive it, but when it is freely given it is a joy to receive. I am learning how to make a living as a massage therapist. I am also learning how to receive and give money in a different way.


I am going to ponder this more and get back to you all.  Please post comments and tell me your experiences or thoughts.

Me at Tour de Cure 2009

Tour de Cure 2009