Tuesday Truths – “October: Not Only a month for Vibrant Foliage but a month of Vibrant Awareness and Advocacy.” October 10, 2023
October is a remarkable month, not just for its colorful fall foliage and Halloween festivities but also for its significance as a month of National Awareness!
National awareness holidays and health observances are special days, weeks, or months dedicated to raising awareness about important health topics.
Awareness is a reminder to be proactive about our health and is celebrated by:
- hospitals
- healthcare nonprofits
- patients
- media
- social influences.
You can even find a yearly calendar of observances featured at NHOs (National Health Observances) https://health.gov.
I found over 200 health observances for October! All are worth mentioning and to be promoted!
Choosing a passion or cause to support during any monthly awareness can be personal and meaningful to oneself.
After all, we only have so much time and money to give.
Here is what you can do to decide:
- Reflect on YOUR interests, values, and experiences. What resonates with you on a deep level?
- Research Awareness Months – Understanding the goals and objectives of each campaign to see if any align with your interests or values. Do you know where your donations go? Do they stay locally?
- Personal Connection – Do you know someone affected by a particular issue, situation, or disease? Connections may motivate you to get involved and take action to volunteer and donate.
- Impact and Change – What kind of impact do you want to make? Consider the potential for POSITIVE change and how you can CONTRIBUTE through….. awareness-raising, volunteering, or advocacy.
- Learn and Engage – Educate yourself about what you choose. Attend events, webinars, or seminars. Engage with organizations or individuals who are already doing the work.
- Start Small – Don’t commit to a big project right away. Do some volunteering, donating money, or simply spreading awareness through social media. The longer you are involved, the more you can take on more significant roles.
- Evaluate and Adjust – Over time, your passions may change, or you may feel you are not making the impact you want. Exploring other interests is okay if it no longer resonates as strongly as you thought.
Your passions should come from the heart and align with your experiences and values of what you want to see change in the world.
Some examples for October include:
- Breast and Colon Cancer Awareness Month
- Depression Awareness Month
- Cybersecurity Month
- Health Literacy Month
- Mental Illness Month
- Dyslexia Awareness Month
- Domestic Violence Awareness Month
- National Dental Hygiene Month
I would be amiss not to mention:
- National Pizza Month
- Polish American Heritage Month
- Country Music Month
- Junk Mail Awareness Month
- “Socktober” – Socks are the most needed item in a homeless shelter! Just in time for the cooler temperatures. What a great way to connect you to your local shelter.
Each of these Awareness’ in October and other months can serve as a reminder of the “power of collective action” …… in addressing essential societal issues.
So, follow your passions to create your legacy by:
- Giving back for the greater good.
- Staying true to your values and principles.
- Inspiring others to pursue their passions and to make an impact.
- Celebrating milestones. To keep you motivated.
- Connecting with like-minded individuals and organizations to create a more significant effect.
- Documenting your journey. Experiences, lessons learned, and achievements…… to serve as inspiration to others and recording of your legacy.
Creating your legacy with your passion is a lifelong endeavor. It’s about taking your passion and making a positive and lasting mark on the world.
Until next week,
embrace the journey, and Trust Your Truth that your passion will be the driving force ….. behind the legacy you build…. Awareness and Advocacy with AGE-GILTIY.
Bye for now!