It is very easy not to bother, or pretend something is not happening because it is too much trouble, 'its alright some-one else will help I haven't got time' or 'it’s not my problem.' If everyone was to take that attitude then where would we be – a very sad society and not a pleasant place to live. Girlguiding makes a difference to the lives and communities they are in by being a positive force for good. Part of this is self-sacrifice. Self-sacrifice can mean many things and take many forms but the key part is that you do something good for others, not just yourself.
Remember the buzz on your first brownie holiday, or night away from home, or the sense of achievement abseiling. It would not have happen if someone hadn’t made the time and committed the personal effort to arrange and manage it. They feel great and therefore I feel, as a leader, that with effort and sacrifice, I made a real difference.
I started at 1st Darenth Brownies when I was 8 years old and went on to become a Guide, a member of the Senior Section and then adult leader. As an adult leader I went on to receive my Queens Guide Award and currently I am the Fleet District Commissioner with my friend Tamsin who was also a Queens Guide and my mentor. The support she gave me was immense and I cannot thank her enough. Despite all the demands on her, she always had time for me, helped me be here today and allowed me to see what Guiding can really do for everyone, whatever your age, background or religion. . Who would have taken my Brownie unit away on holiday if the leaders with me hadn't taken the time to organize, plan and run the event for the girls. The same applied across the country and to you here today. My Guiding life in Fleet District and Dartford Division with whom I have always been has shown me how a group of likeminded people with a positive attitude and self-sacrifice can make great things happen for the community, the girls and the leaders involved by enriching the lives of others and a feeling a personal sense of achievement for a job well done. Perhaps by doing so we have sparked the inspiration for the next generation to carry on our cherished traditions and standards.
Self-sacrifice can be, and mean so many different things. It was during my Queens Guide award that I started to volunteer with Kent Search and Rescue. Little did I know that on the team would be my future husband. Mark. We were married in January and he is here today. Mark supported me through my Queens Guide Award and his selfless commitment for me and the support he gave me is immeasurable.
As you have just heard, with some self-sacrifice, in its many forms, there are positive outcomes in all aspects of life from people who you know or have yet to meet. And there are people out there like you that are willing to help others and show that a little self-sacrifice can go a long, long way and make a real difference. Thank you.