Community Service in Our Society, Essay Example

I have been fortunate enough to travel to many countries and become acquainted with some of the local cultural norms and values. These experiences have only made me prouder of America because few cultures place the same emphasis on community service. In America, community service has become a norm rather than an exception. Not only our families and friends but even our schools and workplaces encourage us to volunteer our time and efforts towards social causes.

I am a huge believer in the community service. I have been fortunate enough to be born in a good family that has always provided me with resources necessary for healthy development and growth. In addition, I have received a great education that has made it possible for me to pursue my dreams and create a bright future. I also realize my good luck in being born in America and it is nothing short of a lottery to be one of the few among 7 billion people to be born in the best country and a great family. I cannot express my gratitude to Americans of the past whose efforts created a great society and we are doing nothing but reaping the fruits of their labor. If they didn’t have the commitment to building a great society, we would not have the country we have. Thus, it is now up to me and my generation to demonstrate the same commitment to building a great society for current and future generations.

Even in America, not everyone has access to the same resources as me. I didn’t do anything to have a good life and just got lucky. That’s why I believe it is my responsibility to help those who might not have been as lucky as me. I believe the community thrives when its members recognize the fact that we need each other to prosper. We all need others at some point in life. I am proud of my achievements but I have been helped by many people along the way. Thus, sometimes the less-fortunate people only need our support and encouragement to better their lives. I even know some people who had difficult family lives and one cannot underestimate the importance of environment in shaping the person’s lives. I am proud of the fact that I am able to put myself in other’s shoes and think objectively. This is why I don’t judge and believe in community service because we cannot understand others unless we have been in the same shoes.

Even the most successful people do not achieve their success by themselves only. Even when they don’t realize it, their success is also due to the fact that they were part of the great communities that accorded them rights and opportunities not available in many societies around the world. Thus, they should give back to the communities and help others realize their true potential as well. We do not live in a perfect world but at least we can help societies become more just and fair.

I believe community service should be made mandatory in colleges and workplaces because it also helps us improve our character and may even improve our ethics. Some of the financial scandals over the last few years have been the result of selfish approach to work and life by few individuals. Community service helps us realize our obligations towards the society and improving the average quality of life of its members. It reminds us that we are not only responsible for ourselves and our families but also have obligations towards the communities that we live in. And this realization makes sure we carefully consider every action for its social consequences.

America’s success is also due to the fact that Americans contribute significant time and resources to community service. They help each other improve their lives and together everyone prospers. Community service also helps ensure high ethical standards in professional lives. But more than anything, it helps build a better future for incoming generations.