Service Above Self

Ah . . . clarity!

I was reading an article this morning about an extraordinarily deserving local fire chief who won an award for his community service. He certainly deserves the award and a bazillion others. He's a great guy who truly goes above and beyond for the community. The Rotary award is defined as "Service Above Self"!

Far too often, we are looking and searching for instant gratification. What can I get? How will this benefit me? If I do this, can I get something out of it? And this is what our children are learning. It is sad!

More folks need to practice the disintegrating art of "Service Above Self"! You cannot know true joy until you give something without the chance of reciprocation. It's even better when there's no opportunity for the recipient to even know the donor. To place your needs and wants second, or third, to the privilege of helping another is a truly selfless act and its ripples resonate to places you cannot even imagine.

There is no limelight. There is no headline. There is no fifteen seconds of fame. There is only peace, serenity, and fulfillment of another's necessities. It is a beautifully uplifting and freeing moment when you've walked away from 'service above self'. Such joy and contentment as to be nearly indescribable.

Today, I not only wish you the euphoria of 'service above self', but I also wish you the humbling experience of being its recipient. It truly puts life in perspective and allows you whole new vistas. And what a wonderful lesson to teach our children!!!