I gave blood again the other day. It was such a delightful experience. I arrived early to beat the crowds but found that several other early birds had gotten there even before me. We all smiled about it and waited patiently while the Red Cross finished setting up the equipment in the basement of the local church where the blood drive was being held. Even though we weren’t getting paid and had to give up part of our afternoon we were all still happy to be there. There was a spirit of joy, caring, and community among us all. The donors, Red Cross workers, and local volunteers all felt it. We shared stories, talked about our families, and feasted on the delicious food that the volunteers had brought in. We joked and laughed and enjoyed just being together for awhile. We felt the peace that came from doing good, saving lives, and making the world a better place. We felt the oneness that always comes when people join together in loving service to others. Even though I knew I had to leave soon to pick up my kids from school a part of me wanted to stay. It was one of those times when Earth was a bit closer to Heaven.

I only wish that everyone everywhere could know in their hearts the simple truth that was so clear during the blood drive: "It is more blessed to give than to receive." If they did then this world wouldn’t be far from paradise. It truly is in helping others that we help ourselves. The love we give and the joy we share circle the world and always find their way back into our hearts. Albert Schweitzer once said, "One thing I know: The only ones among you who will be really happy are those who will have sought and found how to serve."

Never be afraid then to give, to help, to love, and to serve. We are all One in this world. We are all Children of the same Loving God. The same blood runs through all our veins. May we always give it in joy, and may we always serve each other in happiness.