Retirement is opening new doors after a long life of working and putting food on the table. It is a time to relax and travel; to do things you've never had time to do before. But it is also a time to give back to others that have passed that time of enjoyment and relaxation. They need help from people that can freely give it. Every town and city needs volunteers.

After retirement, my husband of 38 years and I joined Good Sams, an organization of volunteers that helps residents in a local rest home. It was overwhelming to see these Senior Citizens, who once thrived as we do now, hit health's rock bottom. Good Sam's is trying to help them bear their last days.

Volunteer work is as an infant to me. I never realized the need nor the power of a hug. A gentle touch of your hand brings beams of light to their eyes. It warms my soul to know such inexpensive gestures are rich pockets of hope to their hearts. Their eyes follow you hoping you'll have news from their son or daughter or spouse.

One little lady who still combs dark hair but has wrinkles dance on her face, motioned me to her. "Will you do someting for me?" She asked.

"Sure," I replied as she put her hands together then caressed my earrings.

"Please tell my son it is time for him to come get me. I have to go home," she spoke as soft as a Dove but with tears in her heart. Her son had just left.

As I gazed into her eyes, I wondered how her son coped with her deterioration. He had to feel worse than I did, not knowing her when her mind was keen and sharp; but realizing he did. What a decision it must have been for him to transport her here and leave her.

I smiled and said, "I'll look into it." Joy covered her face and she put her hands together again.

"You are beautiful. I'll be good, this time I"ll be good, " she said.

My heart hit the floor. The early days at Good Sams were difficult for me; to see the decline of people who once shinned and performed in ways the rest of us take for granted every day. How powerful to realize Pat and I could end up just like them. Our boy's homes stretch out miles away from us, and we'd be left alone like many of them here.

I'm afraid our help has ricocheted. For the joy that has come to us with this volunteer plan, has surpassed us with more gratification than we ever knew would happen or would be possible. And we can't believe they feel better than we do. To see them smile, to feel their grasp, is short of seeing your first grandson the first time. It is the greatest feeling I've experienced in ages.

President Bush strongly encourages everyone to do volunteer work. If you have time, I would petition you to check into this endeavor in the area where you live. You'll experience feelings you've not owned before, and your rewards will be great.