Worth More Than Money
I grew up around hard working adults. My parents and their siblings were the first examples I saw of a strong work ethic. They gave 100% to their jobs, family and community but only got paid for the hours put in at work. Everything else was considered an investment in yourself and others. They believed there was something to be gained from volunteering your time and energy to a cause or acquiring a new skill. I didn’t know it at the time, but their philosophy about work was shaping how I would define worthwhile work.
During the summers, my parents volunteered my brother and me to mow the lawn of the elderly. And during the Fall, we raked their leaves. I didn’t understand it at the time, but I was being taught how to be of service. With constant opportunities to develop this skill, it comes natural to me as an adult of 45 years old.
I have had the privilege of helping people of all ages reach their goals. Half the time their was no charge for the work I did. I was compensated in other ways. When I helped a friend with carpentry work in his home, I didn’t get paid but I learned how to handle an electric saw and install crown molding. Often when a friend calls me to vent or share a challenge, I get a chance to practice empathy and being a good listener. And when I’ve gone to cheer on friends and kids at sporting events, I observed new techniques to improve my own performance and ability to relate to people.
Motivational speaker Jim Rohn said, “Always do more than you get paid for to make an investment in your future.” I am glad my parents made this a part of my childhood. While making money seems necessary in life, their is much to be gained by volunteering your time. I believe true value comes from serving others.
Keith
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