Definition: demonstrating helpful, beneficial, or friendly conduct; giving assistance or advantage to an individual or the community; thoughtful
Balancing Qualities: To balance confidence and humility practice giving service.
People Who Exemplify This Quality: Martin Luther King (1929-1968) American preacher & peacemaker
Saying:
When I do not know who I am I serve you.
When I know who I am I am you. — Hinduism
Quotes:
• Do what needs to be done for yourself as if you were doing it for a dear friend. — Gerard “Jerry” Vincent Hubert Downs (1949-) American photographer & writer
• I don’t know what your destiny will be, but one thing I know: the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who will have sought and found out how to serve. — Albert Schweitzer (1875-1965) Franco-German theologian
Inspiration: They who know the laws of God are liberal minded. If you know the Eternal, even though your body perish, your soul shall survive in spirit service. — Taoism
Comment:
Near versus Far
Many think service must be direct and person-to-person. Even though this individual support provides an emotional connection to the person served, it is no less valid to serve a wide variety of people, near and far. Entertainers for example distribute their talent for everyone’s enjoyment. Writers serve their readers. If someone makes a tool it is up to the one who uses it to do something with it.
Symbol: the buffalo