Are You Bench-Worthy?
I recently read something an old friend of mine wrote, in which he offered that we should all live an examined life. What he was saying is that we should take time to think about things that matter: values, goals, our society. Finding purpose is not just eating, sleeping, working and reproducing.
We can begin finding that purpose by interacting more constructively with one another, by engaging our friends and neighbors to develop a sense of community. Some do this more than others, by offering themselves as volunteers. In doing so, the community is uplifted, and so, they are as well.
Philosophy 101 asks the question: Is there such a thing as a conscious selfless act? It does not insist on a right or wrong answer. The question is designed to stimulate the discussion of who we want to be and how we want to behave. One could argue that people who volunteer in service to others are not performing a selfless act. After all, volunteers are rewarded by the act of volunteering itself, and indirectly they may even benefit from filling a need and improving their own community.
If you take time to look around at the people in your community, you will find many who fulfill such a need—and perhaps fulfill a need in themselves—by volunteering. Those who come closest to that aspirational goal of selflessness do so without regard for any recognition, and often times tend to shy away from the attention their work may bring.
Look a little closer: it is not hard to find plaques or memorials and other tangible reminders of those who are no longer with us, but whom we want to be remembered, not only for their service to community, but as an example for those who follow in their footsteps.
Several years ago, the Sprague Democratic Town Committee chose to recognize such individuals, two long-time residents of our community who gave many hours of their time over many years, trying to help make the world a better place. At the Sprague Land Preserve memorial benches were installed—by volunteers—at scenic locations in the land preserve in honor of Gerald Stefon and Claude Pellegrino, who, through their leadership and skills, helped to secure a place for future generations to enjoy.
The Town of Sprague and groups within our community are always looking for volunteers. As you read this article and consider its message, you may be unsure of how you might be able to contribute to your community. But be assured that you will be welcomed, and you may find yourself becoming a better person for it; you only need to take a little time to examine your life.
The Sprague Democratic Committee is one organization that is available to assist you in your search for purpose. We encourage you to contact us.