The Concept of Service

I have had the distinct pleasure of growing up and being surrounded by others who value the concept of giving back and sharing themselves with the world. I touched on this in my recent article "Hey Young World" for Parlé magazine.

This value blossomed for me as I found myself working for several non-profit organizations and now in the public sector. No job was or ever will be perfect but every now and then you get those soft reminders of why you are doing what you're doing. True to form, my schedule right now is tied up with practically everything imaginable and I am somehow trying to find a space to incorporate this element of service. I've thought about mentoring or assisting with fundraising or helping to plan events but the reality is, now is not the best time for me. And I'm okay with that.

Honestly, for a moment, I felt a bit disappointed; as if I wasn't fulfilling an unspoken promise. However, after some thought I realized I had to change my thinking. Service is not about a grand gesture and although it can be, it shouldn't be all about boosting your résumé either. Service is a simple action that we can take every day. It can be as simple as offering a smile or complimenting someone. I believe calling someone just because or sending an email because you are thinking of them, all count as service. Personal service from one person to another. No holds barred, no frills, just a basic offering of yourself to another person.

Personally, I am working on changing my thinking and being more positive because as Jamaal often reminds me, "it could be worse". In trying to strive for better and accomplish more, it can be very easy to forget what really matters. When things are going well for you, your ability to share that contentment with someone else shows your commitment to service. Someday you will need to borrow that same content to keep you motivated during a challenging time.

No one is perfect, myself included. For now I'm attempting to remain positive, stay motivated, value those who truly deserve it and enjoy life. Find some time in your day to exercise the concept of service. It helps you and recipient of your service and helps the days go by a little easier.

Happy Monday,
S