Is Being A Billet For You?

The Definition Of A Billet

This is a very common question among people who have never had the Billeting experience, or people that are interested in giving it a try, but don’t know what is involved.

The dictionary describes Billeting as having its roots as a military term for opening your home to soldiers and is associated with the assignment of lodging to a soldier, but generally stands for provider of lodging these days.

Today, Billeting has expanded to encompass men and women who are involved in professional sports, such as hockey, baseball and soccer.  It includes those on missions or foreign-exchange students.  It involves becoming hosts to these people and providing them with a home away from home.

 

What A Billet Is To Me

A Billet is a unique group of caring and sharing individuals who not only open their homes to complete strangers; they essentially adopt them into their families.  Providing a person a place to stay, in a safe environment. Being a support system for your Billet Son or Daughter and being there for them, through good times and bad.  Making sure there is always something for them to eat and preparing good nourishing meals.

In summary a Billet is someone who not only shares their home but their life with a stranger and provides the necessities of life for them.

In this article a Billet takes a look at his Billeting experience.  Also, read here how one team describes Billeting and a Billet Families responsibilities.

I wrote this poem about Billeting…..

 

WHAT IS A BILLET?

What do they do you might ask?

And is it going to be an easy task?

Is it something that anyone can do?

Or is it a job for a selected few?

First let me tell you what a  billet means

As everyone has a different idea it seems.

A job, an appointment or position in the dictionary it is defined

Or lodging for a student in a private home and a place assigned.

These are just a few of the meanings that I was able to find

But a billet is giving someone a place to live and being kind.

It means you have to be patient and understanding

As the billet player you get could be very demanding.

Being a billet can be a challenge right from day one

At times you will need to lighten up, and just have fun!

It isn’t for everyone and can be very trying

At times you will be frustrated and feel like crying.

You will need to be available and offer your support

Making sure to always keep the ball in your court.

If you really want to billet you need to be caring

For a stranger, your home and your life you will be  sharing.

Keep an open mind and consider what it is all about

And a great billet you will make I have no doubt.