fuk

When I first started high school, I did not think much of the benefits of community service. It wasn’t until my first hands-on service opportunity that Ut Prosim allowed me to understand the underlying principles of service. I volunteered to play violin with an orchestral ensemble at Brightview Assisted Living, a retirement home near my house. Our performance was exactly what I had expected: an hour of elementary holiday tunes. However, the reaction of the Brightview residents was what influenced me. Our rendition of “A Charlie Brown Christmas” elicited cheer and applause worthy of a Carnegie Hall concerto. After speaking with our audience, I learned that we all shared an appreciation for classical music (which the majority of my generation cannot relate to). Discussing Tchaikovsky’s works with the ladies and gentlemen in attendance was what made my night special. Connecting with those who share my passion was an experience that will always be meaningful. Ultimately, opening up to the idea of serving my community allowed me to meet wonderful people and transformed the abstract concept of service into something more concrete. Now, to me, service is a network that connects ideas and people. No matter where life takes me in the future, I will find a way to serve.