Altruism can be defined as the concern for the well-being and/or happiness of other humans or animals above oneself. It means prioritizing the welfare of others over one’s self.
Altruism can manifest in various ways, such as acts of kindness, volunteering, donating or charity. The motivation behind altruistic behaviour varies from genuine care for others to social or personal rewards.
My parents have always been altruistic. I grew up watching them help relatives, people in our society, strangers, and people at their workplace, getting involved in social service, and engage in community interventions. They have instilled altruistic values in me and my siblings. Empathy, Compassion, Kindness, Honesty, Humility, Morals, and Ethics have been an integral part of my life.
Our parents always taught us that selflessly serving humanity, animals, and the environment should be our motto. My education in missionary schools and colleges also shaped my involvement in humanitarian activities.
Altruism starts by helping a single person, moving a single step one by one.
Mother Teresa has rightly said, “If you can’t feed a hundred people, then just feed one.”
You can feel the joy of life by the small changes you bring in at least one life.
Since childhood, I have been involved in various altruistic activities like helping in orphanages, slums, old age homes and community service. I would teach the slum children, and help them in cooking and serving food. I would often listen to the stories of the people that would be tragic, it would move my heart. I would act as an emotional support by helping them calm down, play soft music for them and have entertainment activities for them.
I would help women in various Empowerment initiatives for women and child development. Educating them about health and being an active part of their livelihood initiatives, I got immense satisfaction for bringing substantial change in their lives.
Whether in School, College or Work, I would take the initiative of Planning, Organizing and Executing various activities during events. From Welcoming the guests, making logistical arrangements, involving everyone in events and safely sending them off, I would take care of everything.
“No one has ever become poor by giving.” —Anne Frank
It is rightly said that when you give anything to others selflessly without any expectations, God gives you back much more in return.
I have seen the poor and the vulnerable have so rich hearts. Whenever I would visit them for their developmental activities, they would welcome me with open arms, and warm hospitality. They would thank me and give me blessings.
Whether it is offering a seat during travel or saving and donating money to the poor, each act brings joy to my life. I have incorporated altruism as a daily routine.
Altruist behaviour and attitude have a positive impact on my overall well-being. It has always instilled positive emotions and satisfaction in me and the people whom I have helped.
The differences and impact that I have created in each one’s life have remained intact in my memory. Whenever I am bogged down by worries, stress and battling challenges it is the hope and motivation of all these people that has helped me to heal and emerge victorious.
Altruism is an integral part of ecology balance as well. Whether it is humans, animals or organisms each one selflessly helps and co-operates in their community of ecosystem which promotes survival, growth and sustainability.
Altruist behaviour at times had negative effects on me and it backfired also. People start having constant expectations and become dependent if they are receiving anything for free. People also started doubting why I was over-altruistic. At times when I overindulged in the activities, I forgot to prioritize myself and my own family. This led to distress and suffering within the family. It is essential to have a balance and boundaries so that we don’t overindulge in anything and realize our self-worth.
In this fast-paced world of competition, people are just concerned about themselves. I believe real development can only happen when we connect, help others and grow together as a society.
Life is the most precious gift. The real meaning and purpose can be only felt by the difference and impact on other's lives.
