We all know that volunteering is a good thing: giving our time and skills helps others when they need it; it feeds our souls; it gives us purpose. I like to volunteer at my kids' schools and with my local mom's club to show support and to help out when needed. I haven't yet gone outside my immediate community. Volunteering feels good and is a good lesson for my kids, but I never expected to meet the people I've met in the past year. I had no idea that volunteering at a book fair, having a true friend, and two people with cancer would lead me to living a life with more gratitude and patience.