On altruism.

“The good is the beautiful.” – Plato

For me, one of the highlights of the holiday season is Vincent Massey Secondary School’s Children’s Christmas Party (fondly known amongst the students and staff as CCP). I still remember attending it ten years ago as a first time teacher at the school, not really knowing what to expect. But after my first experience, I now look forward to the event every year. The students organize a huge Christmas celebration for young children with crafts, a turkey lunch, and of course, Santa. Every year it never gets old for me. I love seeing the students take on leadership roles, and most of all, the young children having so much fun. I am reminded during this time, how important altruism really is.

As individuals, I think it should be our duty to help those in need if we are able to do so. Love, happiness, and wealth should be spread, not just kept to ourselves. By helping others, it allows us to connect more as a community. A society cannot function with all of us working for our own good, but for the good of everyone.

Being altruistic also leads to understanding and empathy. For example, having the students participate in a can drive allows them to learn about the needs of individuals and families within our city, and provides them with an opportunity to help, even if the action may be considered small. This not only makes us better citizens, but better human beings who can see the importance of compassion and camaraderie.

Any altruistic action can make one feel a sense of purpose in our chaotic world. I think that one of the biggest problems we face in contemporary society is a combination of apathy and egoism. I see it as a spectrum from not caring at all, to only caring about yourself. If we were somewhere in between, maybe we could embrace each other more. And for me, that makes life not only more enriching, but meaningful.

As we continue to go about our lives this holiday season, try to think more about giving than receiving, and consider ways that you can help contribute to your community in a positive way. Everyone benefits when love is shared.