Action

Following our passion can lead to action. I am always inspired by the energetic endeavors so many of my friends undertake to make the world and their communities a better place. They volunteer and work within their faith, take on a formidable cause and even run for political office. Knowing them is humbling and a reminder that all involvement large and small makes a big impact on the lives of people. Maybe the stories of these women I call friends will inspire you too.

Click on this photo to read Kari's impassioned blog.

When my friend Kari Gang hears about a natural disaster, she puts her busy life on hold and goes to that locale to help. Puerto Rico was her most recent trip. She writes beautifully about her motivation, her preparation, the long tiring days of physical labor and suggests small steps we can all take in our daily lives to help curb these catastrophic events. Kari inspires me to think about the larger world and how some of my own actions can impact the lives of other people facing trouble.

Click on this photo to learn more about Naomi.

Naomi Bechtold decided to run for State Senate in Indiana. “I realized I’d rather be the one making the laws to help us…” It is easy to see a problem, complain about it and let that be the end of it. It is harder to take the next step toward action.  Naomi inspires me to move beyond talk (and complaining about a situation) and take an active role in the community. 

Click on this photo to learn more about Moms Demand Action.

Susan Reuter Smith is active in a local chapter of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense In America. Her passion turned activism is part of a national movement to promote sensible gun legislation. Susan has inspired me to create a special clay art project to help raise money for the local group in Frederick in the coming months. 

What is your passion? Have you taken any action to support it? Any step big or small has impact. To borrow an ad campaign from Nike, "Just Do It".

It's Your Serve.

I’ve been thinking a lot about ‘giving back’ lately. As a clay artist, what skill set can I share with others that will be meaningful? It’s one reason I like to teach; it’s nice to share some of my experience and knowledge with interested students. I also donate various creations to charity events to help raise money and awareness for their cause. I know there is more to being ‘of service’ than that. So I’d like to explore more ways to spread kindness in day-to-day life. 

Garden bells are in process for a class I'll be teaching at The Muse in Frederick. Interested in having one for your outdoor space? Click on this photo to send me a message and I'll make sure you are notified of class details!

January 16 is a holiday celebrating Martin Luther King’s birth. People are encouraged to volunteer on this day to honor MLK. Service holds lots of different meanings; it can be interpreted spiritually, signify a community-driven passion or happen in simple one-on-one encounters. I think it’s most beneficial when it’s meaningful to the person providing the favor. 

New heart shapes are stacking up in the studio in anticipation of Valentines Day! Reserve one for yourself or a loved-one by clicking on this photo!

Volunteering can seem impossible or time-consuming in a busy life. I think this element of sacrifice is part of the point. My mother used to write a weekly column for the Washington Post called “You Can Help.” Each article would showcase a worthy opportunity for volunteering. Sometimes we just need a suggestion of where we can help out. Google is probably a great resource for that question nowadays. 

I tried out a new recipe that was shared with me for my favorite Eggplant Parmesan this past week.. That simple act of kindness fed my tummy and my soul!

Sharing is another good way to think about service. It’s an easy way to give back throughout our lives. Think of how good you feel when a family member, friend, co-worker or stranger does you a favor. Make a conscious effort to pass on the goodwill as well. 

In the spirit of giving, one lucky ClayByLaura Club member will receive this Bird Feeder from my studio. Winter is an especially good time to provide for the hungry birds in your neighborhood. Remember to fill up your own with ample seed this time of year. Want one of my colorful bird feeders for your yard? Click here to shop. (and if it’s not currently in stock, I’ll make one just for you!)

Janet Moll is the lucky winner of the January 2016 ClayByLaura Club giveaway. Want to have a chance for next time? Click on this photo to sign up!