“We rise by lifting others.” – Robert Ingersoll
We are sharing below excerpts from a recent blog by Steve Farrell, executive director, Humanity’s Team. You will find a link to his full inspiring article (with a link to a free related webinar) at the end of this text.
Though our world is filled with diverse beliefs and ideologies, one concept unites humanity across all lines: the act of service. Serving others – the act of giving of one self and making a positive impact on the world – lies at the heart of conscious living. It is a universal language that transcends individual differences and taps into the profound sense of unity and oneness that connects all of us in this vast and intricate web of existence.
As we evolve on our path of conscious living, we discover that service is a cornerstone of this transformative journey. It is not only a means to combat the darkness of despair and depression but also a path to immense spiritual satisfaction. Through acts of service, we become co-creators in the unfolding story of humanity, weaving threads of love, compassion, and hope into the very fabric of our existence.
The Essence of Conscious Living
Conscious living at its core is a way of being that acknowledges the interconnectedness of all life forms and recognizes the divine essence within each being. It involves living with mindfulness and awareness, nurturing a deep sense of responsibility for the well-being of oneself, others, and the planet. In essence, it is a recognition that our actions have a ripple effect, and the energy we put into the world returns to us in kind.
To live consciously is to understand that we are not isolated individuals but rather integral parts of a larger whole. This perspective shifts our focus from self-centered pursuits to a more inclusive approach that seeks the betterment of all. It encourages us to look beyond the superficial differences that often divide us and, instead, recognize the profound unity that binds us together.
Service Across Religions
One remarkable aspect of service is its prevalence in the teachings of various religions and spiritual traditions. It is as if humanity’s spiritual heritage recognizes the profound impact of service on our spiritual evolution. In Christianity, for instance, Jesus’ life exemplified the act of service. His washing of the feet of his disciples symbolized the humility and love that underlie true service.
Similarly, in Hinduism, the concept of “Seva,” or selfless service, is deeply ingrained in the culture. Seva is regarded as a means to purify the heart and soul, emphasizing the importance of serving others without expecting a reward.
Buddhism, with its teaching of compassion and loving-kindness, also promotes acts of service as a way to alleviate suffering and foster spiritual growth. The Dalai Lama often speaks about the transformative power of compassion and service in bringing about a more compassionate world.
The common thread among these diverse traditions is the recognition that service is not merely an external action but a profound inner transformation. It is a way to connect with our higher selves and the divine presence that resides within us and in all living beings.
Uplifting Your Spirit Through Service
Depression, often described as a feeling of profound sadness and hopelessness, can be a pervasive and debilitating condition. In the journey of conscious living, service emerges as a potent remedy for combating depression. When we step out of our own concerns and dedicate ourselves to helping others, a remarkable transformation occurs within….
Spiritual Satisfaction Through Service
Beyond the tangible benefits of combating depression, a life of service leads to profound spiritual satisfaction. It aligns us with the fundamental truth that we are interconnected with all life, and our actions have a meaningful impact on the world….
“We rise by lifting others” is a simple yet profound statement that encapsulates the essence of conscious living and the beauty of service. When we choose to serve, we rise above our individual concerns and become active participants in co-creating a more loving, compassionate, and harmonious world.
Conclusion
The act of service is not a burden; it is a gift we give ourselves and the world. Service oriented pursuits are the key to unlocking the spiritual treasures within us and experiencing the profound beauty of conscious living. As we extend our hands to uplift others, we also elevate our own spiritual experience, recognizing that the remedy to the world’s problems lies right here, right now, in the conscious choices we make each and every day.
Let us embrace the path of service, guided by the wisdom of ancient traditions and the universal truth of unity and oneness. Together as a global community, we can indeed create a tipping point that brings about dramatic positive change. With each act of service, we contribute to a flourishing world for everyone for generations to come. The beauty of service is not just in what it does for others but in how it transforms us, lifting us to new heights of spiritual fulfilment and oneness with all of humanity….
Steve Farrell, executive director, Humanity’s Team
https://www.humanitysteam.org/the-beauty-of-service-how-serving-the-world-elevates-our-spiritual-experience
