Thoughts to Ponder Upon: Volunteering and It's Meaning to Me

 By Maricar Reguyal y Sazon

“Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young..” – 1 Timothy 4:12

What motivates us to volunteer? Certainly, we are not paid for what we work for; we only reap body aches, or we end up physically drained after participating in such a kind of volunteering event; and it also consumes our time that we are setting aside other priorities like work, family, or our studies.

But I tell you, take a hard look at the dictionary and the word "volunteer" exists! Not that people who have nothing or less in life have invented the term to impose moral obligation upon their more fortunate brothers. The idea of volunteering is rooted in our religious ideologue; but to some, we understand, helping others has nothing to do with their secular living, that to them volunteering is merely an egoistic boost, or simple part of their subconsciously forged social contract with other people. To them, when you help people, you can expect something in return.

Setting aside the philosophical undertone, I tell you, to volunteer is not an easy engagement to fulfill. I experienced it myself. It took my time, effort and sometimes even shared an amount out of my finances. To volunteer requires a heart, a compassionate, loving and selfless heart to give, to share time, and to care for our needy brothers and sisters. We are not expecting money in return. It is enough to feel that in our modest ways, we have helped them ease-out life burdens. Money can not buy you hugs, and good wishes from these people. You are relieved, satisfied, and happy in seeing sweet faces and smiles. You appreciate thank yous. Everything is priceless.

It is the moment we understand what it means to be a volunteer that we can truly accept the true value of giving, friendship and love. The defining moment in your life: you finally realize your worth.

Love of charity is equal to love for other people and love for other people is equals to love for God.

I challenge everyone who will be able to read this: get out of your comfort zones. It's time for us to move in a way that we will be able to make a change. The first step is to change our attitude. Do something that will make a difference. Start building your legacy. (L)

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Maricar, 23, is a human resource officer in a private recruitment agency.