Selfless Service

In speaking with one of my relatives the other day, the subject of how I am spending some of my time came up. I was explaining that I have a few upcoming events that I am donating my time to the community or a particular organization.
The only reason we were even discussing these events was that there was a conflict with a "perceived" important event on this person's part. As, I was explaining how I was donating my time this person said, "Wow, I am glad you can afford to do all these things and not get paid."

I almost swallowed my tongue in shock. This was a person whom I thought had some social consciousness and was willing to lend a hand when asked. I remember in the past how she devoted time to her church, stayed late at work to help others, and was basically there when people needed her, whether they asked or not. Then the light bulb in my head went on.

In those instances of her giving service to the community, there was always someone watching saying, "oh isn't she great, what a worker, she's so devoted". She was always waiting for the applause to hear how well she was doing and how caring she was. In reality, many of these "selfless acts" detracted from time she should have been spending with her family. I can remember her children saying, Mon doesn't have to do these things, but she always wants to "look good". Is that a lesson to teach your children?

Are you in right relationship with the service you provide to people. Are you doing it for a pat on the back or simply for the feeling of doing good. Either way... service is being provided. What happens if you look at it with no expectation of even a "thank you"? Does that change your willingness to participate?

Find a cause or group you believe in and donate even a small amount of time. Perhaps your family can join you. Reap the rewards of being of selfless service to others. You won't regret it. The universe will reward your selflessness with feelings of accomplishment beyond the accolades anyone could give you.

Take care of yourselves and each other.
Best,
Thomas