I’m all for the concept of giving back to society. It’s a good thing to do.
After all, we’ve gotten so much out of society and life, the least we can do is to give back a little bit. Maybe contribute your time, money, and energy to a cause that you personally believe in. A cause that is greater than yourself.
For me, one of these causes happen to be Toastmasters. The mission is to help others improve their public speaking, communication, and leadership skills in a positive and supportive environment.
I’ve served as President for my local club before. I’ve served as their Vice President of Education. And this year, I’m serving as their Secretary. Each role has given me a different perspective on the concept of leadership.
And I’m grateful to be given the opportunity to serve and “give back” to society thru this wonderful organization.
But is it really giving back?
After all, I’ve received so much from Toastmasters too. I’ve received a network of like-minded individuals that believe in the same mission as I do. I received the opportunity to enhance my own public speaking, communication, and leadership skills.
Being President helped me see the value of teamwork and service. Being Vice President helped me see the value in mentoring others. And being Secretary helped me see the value of working behind-the-scenes for a greater cause.
I received invaluable perspective on community. I’ve received an added dimension that brings forth more interest and excitement towards my life. I’ve received a hit of dopamine every time I give back, which makes giving back physically enjoyable and fun to do.
I’ve received so much from this organization by simply giving back my time and energy for just a little bit.
I feel that this concept can be applied towards life in general.
All the simple things we take for granted every day, we have received. The clothing on our backs. The roof over our heads. The air we breathe.
We are receiving all of this each and every day (and sometimes each and every second).
Everything that is part of ourselves. Everything we have. Whether it be our fortune, our family, our friends, our relationships, our personal well-being, our peace of mind. We’ve received from somewhere else or somebody else - to some form or extent.
As I’m writing this entry, I’m receiving the warmth from my heater. I’m receiving the gift of silence which allows me to write more productively. I’m receiving the air in the room that allows me to sustain myself.
A lot of things that I don’t even notice or take for granted, I’m receiving and it is contributing to this beautiful experience called life.
We receive so much every day, that it’s kind of impossible to give back more than we receive. Simply because we are continuously receiving. The colors of art, the sound of music, the taste of food. And on and on.
We all receive so much more than we can give in this world. The least we can do is realize that and walk on this earth with a sense of appreciation.
Even all the “giving” that I can do each day is minuscule compared to everything that I receive. And for that I am grateful.
I’m grateful for all that I receive. I’m grateful for the opportunity to give back to a cause that I enjoy. And I’m grateful for all the personal development that giving back has given back to me.