On Giving

I learned something about myself today, or more accurately, about my priorities. I understand that people give money, time, and/or resources to different causes depending on what they care about most. But I had no idea how much I cared about a recent "gift" of mine until I received an email about it.

Last week, the Puget Sound Blood Center had a blood drive on my campus. I used to donate blood pretty regularly, but in all honesty, I'm a convenience kind of lady. If it's there and I'm in good health, I'll do it 10 times out of 10, but only twice have I gone out of my way to go to a donation center (and neither one of those events were recent). I didn't come across too many blood drives in Texas, so I was excited to have one so close to work here in Seattle. It was at work. Can't get much more convenient than that.

I was received an email thanking me for my donation. It said I was one of 16 donors who gave a total of 14 units of blood. FOURTEEN! How is it that a college with hundreds of employees and thousands of students only came up with 14 units? Don't get me wrong, 14 is better than none, but our collective effort was less than half of the blood needed for any one of the "your donation saves lives" stories.

I may not have lots of money to give or time to volunteer, but this is something I can do that I feel makes a difference. Despite the poor turnout this month, they're coming back. So, if you live near me or work with me - lookout! I will try to take you with me next time.


(and no, I won't pressure anyone ruthlessly. I understand that some people can't or just don't make donations in this way. But if you're not opposed to it... I'm coming for you!)

Here's some more food for thought thanks to America's Blood Centers: