Giving back has always been part of my journey and destiny. I remember the joy and fulfillment it gave me at age 16. My first experience of giving back was as a counselor at an Easter Seals camp. Shortly after that, I was appointed to the Washington State CDC HIV planning committee by the mayor of Spokane. I have always had energy and tenacity for public service. In return, I have always felt appreciated for my voice and input, accompanied by a great sense of satisfaction.
As a long-term survivor of 26 years, my desire to help others has followed me throughout my life. As a board member of the Spokane AIDS Network (SAN), I have had the pleasure to serve my community. We are a family, and you can feel the love at our events and throughout our services. Through the toughest years of my life, SAN helped raise me up and guide me through the fear and doubt that was in my mind. They helped me get from a shame mindset to that of a warrior survivor!
Spiritual clarity in this chapter of my life is important for my well-being. I am of service to my church, Westminster UCC. They have shown me that we are all “helpers” and we can make a difference in the world.
I was hosting a Zoom social hour when a man who was terminally ill entered the virtual gathering from his hospital bed. He shared that he was dying alone, and we were there for him. We all cried, and I told him we loved him and played music he enjoyed.
Service work has changed for me as a result of the COVID pandemic. It has been back to basics for me. I have learned how to be a better listener and help people on their journey toward feeling whole and loved. I was hosting a Zoom social hour when a man who was terminally ill entered the virtual gathering from his hospital bed. He shared that he was dying alone, and we were there for him. We all cried, and I told him we loved him and played music he enjoyed. That experience was a gift, to be there for him at his time of need. It’s realities like this that keep me serving. If I can make a difference in just one person’s life, I have fulfilled my destiny. I will always hold onto that hope.
I have experienced time and time again, when I am in service to others, I am truly honoring myself. I am love, and that love can be felt on any level from in person, on Zoom or in a phone call. I have always looked up to Mr. Rogers for his lessons of kindness, love and service. May those lessons live on for many decades to come!
Princess Dallas Lyle finds joy and solitude at his home in Hope, Idaho, where he enjoys the company of his pups Bratwurst and Smokey.