Bovine Based Wisdom

There is an ancient Icelandic proverb, the modern English translation of which is: "The cows of Husavik sing, but only after well after dusk."  This, of course, is self-explanatory for those who dwell across the street from the Arctic Circle.

For those who don't catch the laughably evident meaning, it is both a cautionary tale as well as a recognition that we all possess talents that are seldom witnessed.  Regarding the former, it exhorts us to express ourselves before it is too late...to take a stand, while the body and spirit permit, in defense of a cause, a principle, a community.  To the latter point, it encourages us to take chances...to not flinch in the face of risk.  It is easily among my favorite old Icelandic proverbs.  Probably Top 15.

Applied to our time and place, it could be read as a call for public service in some form...either by seeking office, or by volunteering, or by applying one's talents in a manner that promotes the common good.  I know many of my readers are already immersed in such activities. That said, there is another circle of folks, who have the time, energy, and temperament to engage in these pursuits, but they haven't reached the tipping point yet.  They stand by the river's edge, canoe at their feet.  Why not offer them an oar?

Which is my way of saying, if you know such people, perhaps it might be a good time to strike up a conversation about the meaning of community, volunteerism, and philanthropy.  Ask questions.  If they had the time to dedicate to a cause, what would they want to do?  When appropriate, offer suggestions.  Perhaps he/she/they simply don't know where to begin their journey.  Be understanding.  Sometimes people need to sit with the "How can I help?" question for a while.  Encourage them, but allow them to work out their own timetable.
 
They will remember that you helped provide the sheet music.  And when they thank you, remember to respond, "Don't thank me.  Thank the cows of Husavik."  Chuckle knowingly.

Stay tuned, as more will follow.         
 

"And You Give, and You Give"

Katy bar the freakin’ door because it is about to get real…and personal…real personal to the point of over-sharing. To the max. I can’t stress that enough, or can I?

[Insert local TV news awkward story transition] Speaking of sharing…I know we are all looking for different ways in which we can engage in our local communities.   This Wednesday offers a prime opportunity to hear from the Super Friends of Howard County’s Non-Profit Community.  Just look at this line-up:

Bita Dayhoff: President, Community Action Council of Howard County

Beverly White-Seals: President and CEO, Community Foundation of Howard County

Joan Driessen: Executive Director, Association of Community Services of Howard County

Mickey “#AllDogs” Gomez: Executive Director, Volunteer Center Serving Howard County

This is promising to be a fascinating night of panelist insights and Q & A.  If you want to get a handle on what is happening in our local not-for-profit scene, there is no better place to be than the Jeffers Hills Neighborhood Center (at 6030 Tamar Drive in Columbia) on November 12 (again, this Wednesday). The Columbia Democratic Club is hosting the event although this panel discussion is not focused on electoral politics.  It will be centered on: “The State of Nonprofits in Howard County: Perception, Challenges and Opportunities.”  Which is excellent news because that is also the title of the program. 

The meeting should kick off at 7:00 pm with the panel discussion commencing at about 7:30 pm.

Seriously, these are some awesome people doing great and important work in our community.  Come hear what they have to say, share your ideas, and let’s make connections and take steps to make our County an even more amazing place to live.

Stay tuned, as more will follow.