Being of Service

At the risk of sounding corny and quoting contemporary song lyrics like those sung by Rihanna, these few lines from the beginning of the song will help me illustrate my point for this week’s blog. Sing along if you know it…

Find light in the beautiful sea I choose to be happy You and I, you and I We’re like diamonds in the sky

O.k. I know, now you won’t be able to get that tune out of your head all day. Sorry. So here’s my point.

Several years ago, I was introduced to Sean Young, a “serial entrepreneur”, as he called himself. And he certainly lived up to that moniker -- always on his own terms (which in my opinion is one of the best ways to live a joyful life!)

At one time, Sean had a company that trained front-line retail staff in the art and skill of good customer service, with the emphasis on service. In fact he explained that he saw “service as a virtue”. That phrase always stuck with me.

I particularly like the way Wikipedia defines the word “virtue” as “moral excellence.” What a wonderful virtue to aspire to!

“There is joy in being wise and just, But above all there is the beautiful, The immense happiness of serving.” ~ Gabriela Mistral

Those of you who know me, know that I love writing and reading poetry that moves my soul. So when I ran across this great little poem by Gabriela Mistral about service, I knew I had to share it with you for this week’s blog.

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” ~ Mahatma Gandhi

This month’s theme is about being of service. So when I ran across this quote, I knew I had to share it. Spiritual leaders like Gandhi certainly set the bar high for this virtue and were likely great listeners.