I always thought that no matter how noble our services are, there is some desire to get something for ourselves or others at the root of our actions.
This week, I listened to a talk about altruism or selfless leadership and got inspired to further investigate the meaning of selfless service. The speaker described her brave journey serving in jail for the inmates and explained how much she became energized when she supported them without expecting anything in return and without the need to be noticed or seen.
What is driving her? What makes her want this altruistic action? It is about others; it is a purely unselfish act; nothing is for her, not even attention, reward, acknowledgment, honor, appreciation, respect, worth, and value.
Initially, I understood that this service is about supporting others’ unmet needs or desires, and nothing was there for us. But I noticed that this service is still dependent on the outcome or the result. Even our act is unselfish; we are always at the mercy of our action’s impact on others.
Then I wondered about not knowing what others’ needs are, and if I act without expectation, not being aware if others need my help, attention, or service.
When I am driven by the love of the action, when the love of service energizes me and guides me towards others, my motivation is for love and not to be loved. Then I need these people more than they need me. I appreciate them because they offer me the distinctive experience of feeling and expressing my love.
Then I would know that my action is not attached to any expectation or desire, and is free from any outcome.
What is going to be my intention then?
I will not have an intent but the love of the service itself, and it is the love in me that will drive me to serve, and I am just expressing and manifesting this flow through my service to others.
When we are driven and guided by Love, it is always the right direction because it is our natural path. Our action will then emanate from this love and express itself in service for others and any other expression.
This detachment from the outcome, expectation, and desire make us more spontaneous, present, and liberated.
Love in action is when our action has no desire or intention but towards itself, toward the love that it is springing from.
Selfless service is this love in action.
What motivates you to serve others?
When was your last selfless act?