I went on a trip where I saw—or at minimum, it appeared like—true service. 

True service is where the person delivering wants to help rather than just doing it because they have to. It’s the difference between getting a birthday gift with some thought—and feeling—behind it and getting one that is a cold obligation.

The no-thought, cold obligation is a stand-in. It’s not true. It’s not honest. It’s not really generous. It is a placebo. 

When I was on my trip, I was given so much in the way of care. I was so rarely allowed to lift a finger. When I attempted to carry my own plate, someone came to do it for me…with a smile…and an offer to do more if needed. Cynics might say they only did it for a tip but I say it felt genuine because they kept doing it day after day, tip or not. 

True service. True connection. True generosity. We need it…at work, at home, and at play. And we all can do it…in ways both big and small. 

Take the challenge. Be honest. Be true. 

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