Paying forward is a movie idea, but one that is good for the soul. There are benefits to acting on this idea and I'd like to share one with you today.
For those of you who are not familiar with the movie, the plot has to do with a teacher challenging his students to come up with an idea that will change the world. One young lad has the idea that he will give of himself to help three people in a significant way. Rather than ask for anything himself, he charges each person to "pay it forward" and do the same for three other people. The ensuing changes prove his idea works and creates a feel-good aftermath to the death of that young man.
Forty years ago, I joined Scouting and worked my way through the ranks wtih considerable help from my parents and other adult volunteers. After turning 18, I began to pay forward all the help I received and began working as a volunteer in the program myself. Today I am a Scoutmaster and am working with about 36 young men as they learn and grow.
There are benefits to giving back. I have personally contributed to the success of nearly a dozen Scouts who went on to earn the rank of Eagle. I just recently had the privilege of signing the Eagle Scout application for another Scout. There is no greater feeling than knowing you helped shape the life of someone else for the better. There is no reward as satisfying as seeing someone you helped succeed. One of my most precious memories centers around twin boys who were in my Troop years ago. The both earned the rank of Eagle Scout and joined different branches of the military after being accepted in their respective Academies. Before starting their first tours, they came back to town to visit. After chatting with me for a while, they turned to leave. As they started to walk away, they turned back to me and said "Thanks Mr. Dailey" When I asked them what that was in reference to, they simply said "Everything."
There are may ways to affect the lives of others in a positive way. There are many, many organizations that afford us the opportunity to do so both visibly or behind the scenes. If you are involved some how, some way, good for you! Keep up the good work! If you are not, perhaps you should try it. I can tell you from personal experience that there is nothing quite as satisfying as lending a helping hand.
Comments(0)