THERE ARE MANY ROADS TO SERVICE Service is the work involving the use of the head, the heart and the hand for the welfare of others, irrespective of their status, cast or creed. It relieves the economically underprivileged through personal commitment to selfless service. It contributes to the works of development through physical labour. Service explores the potential lying dormant in persons through education. Service is concerned about the needs of others. It offers ample opportunities for the development of one's character and I personality. Service prompts us to give selflessly without expecting anything in return.
There are immense opportunities for service. A friendly smile, a sincere greeting, a passionate foray into the lives of the needy with helpfulness in the heart, will all generate positive energy, which will turn service into commitment. There are many roads to service. No road is more important or less important. What is important is our behaviour, our readiness, our application. When we help others, a way opens up for us to receive something - receive a smile or an expression of gratefulness or a "tonic" to rejuvenate yourself or a tranquil, peaceful, deep happiness. Happiness is like a shadow - the more you run after it, the more it seems to move away. Only service to others will cast a shadow that will follow us - we would not run after the shadow.
Rotary's only goal is service. It is dangerous to take the eyes off the goal because it will surely result in your eyes wandering away from the goal and see only obstacles. If you do see obstacles, convert them into opportunities of service because, the path of course is never smooth. As you walk on the path of service and have many co-travellers, you will not only have like- minded people as your friends but you will learn to walk together, serve together and share compassionate behaviour.
If Rotary shares, let us share this philosophy with others.