Service Above Self

by Ros Poplar.

America was founded almost 250 years on the principles of rugged individualism and self-sufficiency. Even in those days the journey from the old world to the new world was fraught with peril and many of America’s early settlers did not survive the journey due to exposure to the elements or disease. Upon arrival in the new  world our ancestors, despite the harsh living conditions, banded together and formed the nascent communities that have over time evolved into major and vibrant colonial cities such as New York and Boston. The eventually expanded out west drawn by the prospects of abundant land and resources that were only available in the old world to nobility or people of means.

After these cities were established and thriving people were drawn to the vast expanse of the western United States where land was readily available for the taking and one could become affluent overnight if they struck it rich while panning for gold in the California Republic of striking oil in the vast expanses of the Republic of Texas. The American spirit of adventurism and self-reliance was  indeed, live, and well but even then, there were those who were less fortunate and American communities lead by church groups or simply good neighbors looked after those who were less fortunate or down on their luck. Neighbors indeed helped neighbors through such organized activities as barn raisings or even gestures of
kindness as preparing meals for those unable to provide for themselves.

Unfortunately, I have seen the spirit of volunteerism precipitously decline in my lifetime. I suspect the pressures of an economy that requires both parents to work, the decline of organized religion, increasing political animosity, and the rise of social media which for some appears to have become a religion in itself have all contributed to the unwillingness of many to get involved in local community  activities that not only benefit those in need but lift the spirits and is good for the soul of those who volunteer.

Civic minded organizations such as the Lions Club, the Ruritans, Rotary International, and the Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution who aid those less fortunate are struggling to survive as older member “age out” and new members for whatever reason are reluctant to join and contribute to the greater good of the community. Many of these organizations have been forced to reduce their operations or even close to the detriment of those who rely on the “safety net” they can provide to get them through tough times.

I do not pretend to have the solution to stop this disturbing trend and even among the younger members of my own family I see a reluctance to step up and serve the community. I can only offer that when goes out of their way to give back to their community it not only feels good to the individual who has given time out of his or her day to extend a helping hand, but it is appreciated by those who perhaps need a just a temporary hand up vice a hand out. After all is all about service above self - make this be your Christmas blessing.

James R Poplar III is a retired Navy Commodore and President of the Fort Harrison Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Virginia SAR or its affiliates