A NEW YEAR! TIME TO CONTINUE MAKING A DIFFERENCE!

Hi Friends and Pageant Sisters! 

It's almost the New Year and as I reflect on my recent titleholder activities, I remember how much fun I have had judging pageants, working with the Salvation Army and Feed the Hungry Children, playing Bingo with the elderly, distributing toys at Christmas, as well as looking forward to my first Parade (Winter Carnival) since I was a Homecoming Queen in High School!  lol 

I hope we can get together on March 23, 2013 for Isaac's Foundation's Annual Chili-Feed Fundraiser.  I was lucky enough to be there last year and it was fun to meet Mary, Rose, Wendy and Linda and to work with the purpose of raising funds for a worthy cause.  I was so impressed by the love of that small community in Sauke Center, MN, and how much money was raised!  Mary and I both reminisce about wanting a crown just like the one Rose wore (and I think she was coveting Wendy's lifetime crown)! lol  We (all three) got our wishes! 

There is so much good we can do, in little ways, to make a difference in others lives.  I am blessed to be involved with volunteering.  I have always helped in areas of teaching and leadership, but it's so much fun to be on the "front lines".  Entering my first pageant has turned out to be a wonderful experience.  How richer my life is having come to know our (great) director, worhtwhile platform(s) and fellow pageant sisters.....

Although I am getting into my busiest season with my job, I still plan to accept opportunities that present themselves to help others!

I have to say, I really enjoy working with my new friends at the Salvation Army.  The work is so practical and yet so helpful to others.  I also like that they know the people they serve, having seen them over and over again. 

I just got QPR Gatekeeper Certified today.  It was bittersweet as I learned how easy it can be to prevent a suicide.  I had always been told, if someone wants to do it, they will.  I don't believe that anymore.  Most people don't want to commit suicide, they just don't see anyway out.  That's when someone with a little training can recognize the warning signs and take steps to save lives.  I only wish I would have known this before my son died.  But like the trainer said, we are only responsible for what we 'know to do'. 

I'm looking forward to developing my indoor (power) Out of Darkness Walk-ing class.  I want to do all in my power to stop suicide from happening!  I want to start a charity in the future.  Big dreams, but I will take them one step at a time! 

Happy New Year to all! May God richly bless you and keep you safe!

Sherry
Sherry Westland
Sr. Ms. Global United