We live in unprecedented times. There is so much confusion, so much anger, so much hopelessness, and so much division.
It’s daunting.
Many of us are looking for something – anything – to do that makes us feel useful, impactful, and needed. We are looking for a way to make a difference and make life more tolerable for ourselves and others.
It’s not easy. We can volunteer our time and treasure to help others, which is a great idea. If you have the time and ability, I highly recommend it.
But that’s easier said than done. Most of us are busier than we’ve ever been and if our community, state, and nation continue on the current trajectory, we might be even more harried, busy, and frazzled than we are now.
So, what direct action can we take right now that will fit into our compressed time, net the biggest bang for our buck, give back to our community, and make a real difference in our world?
Simple. Donate blood.
Think about it. It checks every conceivable box of selflessness, helpfulness, and mindfulness.
Easy as 1-2-3
First, you are literally saving someone’s life. If people like you don’t donate blood, people die.
Second, your blood allows doctors, surgeons, and others to make people well.
Third, it takes only 20 minutes of your day, and you even get a cookie when you’re done! How’s that for efficient benevolence?
Last year, I had a terrible accident on an ATV and broke many bones. Complications from my accident led to a hemothorax, which nearly cost me my life. Without the blood I received (nearly three liters) during surgery, I would have died.
One of the nurses told my wife that they almost ran out of blood during the procedure.
“Give blood,” he told her, in response to her shock the supply that night was nearly gone.
Now, both my wife and I donate to Bloodworks Northwest as often as we can.
Which is saying something – because I am one of the most squeamish people you’ll ever meet when it comes to blood draws. I’ve fainted numerous times, both when it was being drawn out of me, and when it was being extracted from someone else. So, when I write that if I can do it, anyone can do it, I’m not exaggerating.
If you are physically able to donate your blood, please consider it.
It is the most direct way you can make a lifesaving impact on the world and your fellow man.
Michael Dunne is the radio host of Oregon On The Record at KLCC, and a contributing columnist to The Chronicle.
