Get High Everybody and Get on the Bus
By Kelly Hutchinson, Donor Relationship Manager
Not that kind of high silly… No I am not talking about any Mick Jagger songs or Melvin Jackson lyrics. Nor am I referring to the euphoric high experienced by marathon runners and world class athletes. This blog is a few thoughts and words about another, far more altruistic high that is called the helper’s high.
It’s nothing new mind you. I would say that there is new research and old wisdom that each uphold the simple truth that those of us who are what I would call “dealers” are aware.
Simply put, it feels good to “get your good on.” And it not only feels good, but it also has been proven in the brain to lower the output of stress hormones, improve cardiovascular health, strengthen the immune system and extend life span. And unlike exercise, there’s evidence that the helper can actually get a small helper’s high even by simply recalling the helping or charitable acts long after they’re finished. Isn’t that a cool residual for doing good!
Think about it…the last time you felt needed, did something for someone else, helped a neighbor, volunteered a few hours or made a donation…you may have came away tired but also deeply refreshed. Proverbs 11:25 reads, “Those who refresh others are themselves refreshed.” Emerson also knew a thing or two about the helpers high as he wrote, “No man [or woman] can sincerely help another without helping himself.”
Lastly, have you seen the bus? This eye-catching bus is a big helper’s high we hope for our friends at TARC who have wrapped it up and are helping spread the LIVE UNITED message in our community. What do you say…wanna check in on the helper’s high? Ready to schedule a little time to do good and get on the bus –you know, we can’t do the work here at Metro United Way without you. It is your United Way and we have got some serious opportunity in our community and the world right now to lend a hand, give a dollar, help a neighbor, mentor a child….and the research shows we will be better for it!
When was the last time you felt the “helper’s high”? Do you think generosity plays a part in your personal or spiritual wellbeing? Are you ready to get your good on and get on the bus? What are your thoughts?