Lately, I have been finding it difficult to maintain a good attitude about life. As if the news of current events isn’t bad enough, with the campaign season in full swing (yes, I know it’s only September), now I am forced to witness the smear campaign ads being run over and over and over.
I’d stop watching the news, but I’ve always felt it is my duty as a responsible citizen to keep up with what is going on. And I kind of need the weather & traffic reports. And I won’t settle only for sources suggested by social media (which know me better than I am comfortable with) that just tell me what they know I want to hear.
I wasn’t born with a naturally optimistic outlook. Yet, I realize it is important to my physical & mental health and spiritual well-being to stay positive.
Recently, I’ve been to two events that have helped: the Columbus Arborfest and the Combined Charitable Campaign’s Kickoff Information Fair.
The Columbus Arborfest
The Columbus Arborfest is held every year at Whetstone Park and features Music & Artists, Nonprofit Advocacy Groups, Native Tree & Plant Sales, Food Trucks, and a Pop-Up Market for local vendors & service providers.
I talked to many wonderful people visiting the event who stopped in to the Simply Living tent. And I was also able to wander around a bit myself and talk to representatives of other nonprofit organizations who are starting to become old friends. And I am always impressed with the local crafters selling their wares: skincare & personal hygiene products, sustainable homewares & cleaning products, herbal teas & honey, candles, soaps, scents, & essential oils. In the interest of full disclosure, I am a customer of many of these vendors.
Of course, the Arborfest would not be possible without the organizers, sponsors, and volunteers who show up to make it a success.
CCC Annual Kickoff Information Fair
The Combined Charitable Campaign (CCC) is an annual initiative that encourages State of Ohio employees to donate to one or many of 900 participating local, regional, & international charitable organizations. Since we are a member of Community Shares of Mid-Ohio, it is possible to donate to Simply Living through the CCC (our code is 19052).
There must have been well over a hundred organizations represented at the Information Fair, all of them providing important services to the community. I was unable to talk to nearly all of them, but was very impressed with those I did visit, including Make-A-Day, which is featured in a separate post.
Why I Feel Better
Seeing all these people & organizations and being reminded of their important purposes & activities has left me feeling rejuvenated. Talking to them and knowing they are active in my community makes me feel better about the future (and the present). My attitude has much improved. Thank you!
The pandemic pushed us back into our homes, isolating us from our community. Alienation from community is an unnatural human condition. I recommend reaching out and interacting with the people who share your values and who are doing positive things. Simply Living has been sponsoring & promoting activities intended to encourage everyone to come out & participate. Please consider joining us in the near future!
