Helping Others = Value & Worth
Restored from the Empower Network archive (2011–2017), lightly edited to meet our current advertising standards. Views are the original author’s.
Have you ever considered how many people you know and see on a regular basis? Your family, friends, co-workers and teachers are only some of the people you communicate and interact with daily. What effect do you have on each other’s lives? By consciously making an effort to willingly help and share knowledge with others, you can improve their lives and give meaning and purpose to your own.
Position Yourself to Help Others
When was the last time you took stock of the ways in which you were helpful? You have the ability to contribute to your family’s well-being. It may seem as if you are only doing minor tasks, but by doing so with a pleasant attitude and to the best of your ability, you alleviate some of the stress from your family members and help make your home life pleasant, clean and healthy.
Have you ever taken part in a drive to clean up your neighborhood or shovel the sidewalk for an elderly person after a snowstorm? Maybe you have volunteered your time to teach English to someone from a foreign country, or read to the blind or elderly? There are countless ways you can assist others in your community. However, it is up to you to educate yourself about the relevant issues in your area. Ask for permission to get involved. Then ask community leaders about ways you can be of assistance.
Position Yourself to Help Others
Think about it. If everyone waited for someone else to pitch in and help, nothing would get done. So take the initiative and be generous with your time. Get involved in extracurricular activities, especially those that will build your awareness about what is going on in our society and our world. Then do what is within your power to help.
Do not underestimate or belittle the time and energy you spend helping your family and community. Considering the needs of others and putting others first will help to give meaning and value to your life and the lives of others.
Source: The Peaceful Solution Character Education Program