Wednesday, March 15, 2023

I’m for the underdog - every rag-tag sports team, scrappy animal that finds its way home and single mother with fingernails dug into the ledge to keep her head above water. Hollywood often takes “the underdog” one step further portraying a con artist or a band of criminals carrying out an intricate art or money heist. Do you fall for it too? These movies are so convincing that by the end we’re all rooting for the bad guy.
But in the reality of our everyday life the underdog presents quite differently. Today’s underdogs are found in every city, in every school classroom and in a red brick building in the heart of Kansas City. Most every child during the height of the COVID pandemic experienced a developmental and/or emotional setback. During a time when socialization is pivotal to their development, they were forced to quarantine. When they needed to be watching faces and lips to learn how to correctly pronounce sounds and words, they were forced to look into masked faces. And when they needed people in their bubble for reassurance and support, they were forced to maintain “social distance”. Despite what they may or may not have received during that time, today they need even more.
Right now,these incredible little humans need someone who simply looks them in the eyes and someone who listens to them talk – even when it’s just baby jabber. They need someone to proclaim “you did it” when they achieve their tiny victories. I don’t know the details or challenges the Sheffield Place Mama’s face. But what I can tell you is they are doing an amazing job. The antics of their little ones always make me laugh. There’s a tot that can barely walk but can dance to “Wheels on the Bus” like nobody’s business, random tackle hugs, the often-sticky-fingered high-fives that Miss Heather taught them and the precious moments we get to cuddle sweet babies and smile as they gaze into your eyes.
It’s near impossible to leave them without experiencing a moment of pure joy. When David asked me to write a post as to why I volunteer, I had to stop and think. Volunteering often appears like we’re doing something for someone else’s benefit, but really there’s just as much to be gained ourselves. So, I’m for the underdog and I’m guessing you just might be too. Pablo Picasso once said “The meaning of life is the find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away”.
We were all made to fulfill a unique purpose in life. These awesome Mamas and their tiny underdogs need a hand, and we all have something special to offer. I personally cannot think of a better place than Sheffield to give your gift away. Volunteer, Sudie J.
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