by Edith Lee

January is National Mentoring Month. This is the third of four articles recognizing the importance of mentoring.

Volunteerism is near and dear to my heart, and I find it rewarding anytime I contribute to the life of another. I feel this is true for most of us. There is only one thing standing in the way - time. "I would love to do more; I just don't have time" is a statement we have all heard and said. I said these very words prior to making the decision to serve on the board of Big Brothers Big Sisters, in addition to signing up as a "Big" myself.

My work life consists of overseeing a busy and stressful social services department, providing supportive services to those in need, in addition to my role as a mental health therapist at the same clinic. Like you, I have 24 hours in a day to do all that needs to be done. Like you, I have a job from 8-5, five days a week. Like you, I have family that needs me. Like you, it is important for me to spend time with friends. Like you, it is important that I remain healthy by going to the gym. Like you, I enjoy my downtime, and often don't want any commitments at all. Like you, I have concerns about "stretching myself too thin."

Then it occurs to me all the time that I have left over - time to eat out of sheer boredom, time to read a book, time to decorate the house, time to go to lunch with friends, or time to shop. If I am honest, time isn't as big of an issue as one might think. If I am honest, life is all about relationships, and I have so much to give. I am reminded of a quote by Helen Keller, "I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something; and because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do something that I can do." January is National Mentoring Month....please join me in debunking the myth of "I'm too busy," and become a mentor. We may not be able to do everything, but we can still do something and there are children in our community who desperately need a caring adult mentor.

Edith Lee, LMSW, a Big Sister from Grant County, is the Chief Support Officer at Hidalgo Medical Services. Find out more about Big Brothers Big Sisters Mountain Region-Do+