The Art of Being Selfless

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I have always admired people who did anything to help those who are less fortunate than them, no matter how big or small their contribution is in the lives of those who are perhaps not as privileged as they are. Investing their free time and energy in contributing to the greater good of society is something that I strongly commend and encourage. 

However, through the various interactions and experiences I have had with these change-bringers, I have noticed that there are two types of people involved in social work; those who are truly selfless and those who seem to be selfless. The difference is subtle but screams if you pay enough attention. Let me elaborate further.

I grasped the meaning of being truly selfless after having a conversation with a lady who has been involved in charity work for a very long time. The main message which struck me in our exchange was “Why do charity work if you expect some sort of recognition out of it? What is the point of being selfless if you are demanding anything in return? Is that being selfless or being an opportunist?”

On different occasions, whether it be at the university or outside such as the political world, I did notice this particular anomaly. I saw people do an absolutely wonderful task at bringing huge smiles on the faces of those, whether they be children, teenagers or adults, who have had to face heart-breaking hardships. I have also seen the same people unconsciously or consciously put themselves forward in the limelight, a few paces in front of those they tried to help, demanding the world to acknowledge and congratulate them on their good deeds. I have also seen the same people being petty and vindictive towards those who wish to pave the way for a happier world just as they wished to do.

In my opinion, the art of being selfless in charity work is and should be pure. It is about eclipsing one’s ego and desires and getting rid of one’s selfishness to put the needs of others on the front line. It is about focusing solely from the beginning till the end on filling up the potholes in the lives of those people who have not been as privileged, even if it is just for a few moments. 

So, I ask myself the same question. Why do people do charity work? Is it out of a genuinely selfless heart or it is to gain even the tiniest bit of recognition?

I admire those who are selfless and those who seem to be selfless for the time and energy they put into helping those who are disadvantaged in society. However, the intentions behind are what intrigue me. In retrospect, I have been fortunate enough to meet a few of those heroes who never claimed any titles or fame and to be completely honest, I have been much more inspired by them.

How about you?

P.S. I do not aim to undermine anyone; these are just my thoughts put in writing. 

Sending buckets full of love your way,
Kavya H. Saikia ðŸŒ¸

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