Ada-Casade Rotary Club first "virtual" Service Above Self Scholarship
Natalie Bauman was recently awarded the first "virtual" Service Above Self Scholarship. Here is the essay she shared in her application:
What does Service above Self mean to you?
I believe that service above self is one of the most important motto's to
follow. Service above self means helping others before helping yourself. It means
setting aside your preconceptions or differences and serving for the sole purpose
of benefiting others. If everyone could revoke their personal interests and focus
on supporting others, imagine how great our world could be. The greatest
achievements are brought by coming together with others to leave a constructive
mark on communities, nations, and countries. It is so important to have a selfless
attitude and assist others because it can create a chain reaction of paying it
forward where the people you show care and service to will feel inclined to do the
same to others which creates a more positive society. By having this unselfish
outlook, we are able to connect with others and let go of our ego to act from the
heart.
For service to truly be a good deed it must be done unselfishly and without
seeking any reward for yourself. The most sincere acts are when you do not
expect anything in return for the things you have done. This demonstrates your
true level of care and commitment to those you are helping. Selfless giving
produces overwhelming amounts of joy that cannot be obtained when actions are
shallow and self-centered.
Service above self is humility, grace, compassion, and nobility. Service
above self is staying after class to tutor a student you notice is struggling,
building relationships with those at a shelter you regularly volunteer at, shoveling
your elderly neighbors’ sidewalk, and serving meals to those in need. It is a way
to connect with the community and leave a beneficial impact on many lives,
which moreover, brings you joy and contentment.