Summary: While the politics of the presidential race can be dispiriting, they do remind us that we are citizens of the country and part of a world that is bigger than our own careers and lives. With that in mind, it is important for us to be actors in that real world and not just in dramas and comedies written by talented writers. We have the power to participate and the power to make a difference. So, I urge you to get involved in the world beyond your career. It will give you perspective about life and work. Volunteering is healthy for our minds, bodies, and spirits and I suspect that the perspective it provides might even help our acting. So think about what matters to you and see if you can’t find an organization to participate in. If politics are your thing, then assist the candidates that you think represent your ideas and interests. If politics are not for you, there are such worthy groups as Habitat for Humanity, Make A Wish Foundation, Red Cross, and the Sierra Club. There are local organizations, such as food banks and animal shelters that need your help. It doesn’t matter what you care about, there is a group that can use your help to make good things happen. If time is an issue there are short-term events and activities that want your participation. There are Heart Walks, Alzheimer Walks, Walks for the Animals, Races against Cancer, Races Against Domestic Violence, and Races Against Crime. If you are for it or against it, you can probably find a walk or a run that fits your schedule. By giving of your time and energy you’ll be doing a valuable service to others and becoming an actor in a much bigger and more important drama than the one you might play in, in a theater or movie.
