The most calming, relaxing feeling I think I have ever had, comes from two short hours a week. I am a volunteer baby-rocker in the NICU at Sanford. Originally I started doing this as a resume builder, so I would have something that would set me apart in the job field when I wanted to go work in a NICU. But it took literally one day to see that it was going to be so much more than that.
Rocking babies is peaceful. These little ones have gone through way more in their short lives (some since even before they were born) than I have in my 22 years. I could literally be having the worst day ever, and the NICU would change that. For two hours in my week, I don't have to think. I can sit there quietly and hold a baby. Funnily enough, it's also the only two hours of the day (and in some cases, week) that I don't have my cell phone right next to me. And you know something? I'm okay with that. I love it. Absolutely love it.
There was a little baby there today who couldn't be set down, even while asleep, because he would wake up and cry. They asked me to rock him, and it was amazing...the instant she set him in my arms, he stopped crying. I think as a parent (since I am clearly knowledgeable in THAT field...), it would break my heart to have to leave him. So I feel good, knowing that I'm doing them as much good as they are me. It's a wonderful, place. And the best volunteer job ever.
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