“You are not here merely to make a living. You are here in order to enable the world to live more amply, with greater vision, with a finer spirit of hope and achievement. You are here to enrich the world, and you impoverish yourself if you forget the errand.”
— Woodrow Wilson
In the final analysis, we’re all selfish beings. Everything we do, at its core, is motivated by what is good for us.
If you believe the viewpoint in the sentences above reflects a cynical outlook on mankind and society, think again. Know this: Because of our selfish natures, we have the inherent instinct to do good for others.
Why? Simply put, because it makes us feel good. In this way, we gain from the doing of good acts even when they do not lead directly to material gain.
Children and young adults often understand this better than those who have reached middle age or beyond. The young, therefore, are less likely to suppress the urge to do good works for others.
Today, on Valentine’s Day, it is fitting to recognize four young people who have followed their hearts. Kegan Stohler, 14; Lilli De Los Reyes, 15; Marc Andrews, 17, and Tiffany Hinton, 17, recently received Presidential Volunteer Service Awards from the Anderson YMCA.
All belong to the Anderson Y Leaders Club, a teen service organization that meets two Thursdays a month. The club welcomes YMCA members and nonmembers alike and currently comprises about 20 youth, ranging in age level from sixth-graders to high school seniors. Combined, Y Club members performed more than 1,500 hours of community service in 2011.
Stohler, De Los Reyes, Andrews and Hinton earned their Presidential Awards by logging 100 or more hours of service. Andrews and De Los Reyes went beyond the call of duty to reach 175 hours.
The youths’ service ranged from raking leaves to officiating basketball games to volunteering at a local facility for battered women.
The benefits to the youth were obvious. De Los Reyes called it “a life-changing experience.”
So, what do you do to help others? If that question makes you feel guilty, do yourself a favor and find an opportunity to volunteer. If you’re not sure where to start, try the YMCA or the local United Way.
What better day than Valentine’s Day to follow your heart, even if you’re being selfish?
Opinion
Related Photos
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These members of the Anderson Y Leaders Club were recognized for their volunteer work by receiving the Presidential Volunteer Service Award. They are Kegan Stohler, 14; Tiffany Hinton, 17; Lilli De Los Reyes, 15; and Marc Andrews, 17. Each received a certificate, lapel pin, and a letter from President Barack Obama. John P. Cleary
Discussion
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