To volunteer, or not to volunteer; That is the question.

I was speaking to a girlfriend recently who was proudly informing me that she has decided to ask her 15 year old son to find a casual job and start learning to save money for life after living at home, or hopefully, a college education. She believed it was time and a pivotal part of his life education.

As she extolled the virtues of obtaining a job at a young age as the launch pad of future employment it occurred to me that many parents are focusing on teaching the importance of employment and gaining material goals without addressing the need for nurturing empathy and humanity at a young age.

As a young person I remember my mother volunteering my services to many 'causes' and family members, most probably as a cheap way of keeping me occupied and entertained, but what I gained during these times gave me skills in later life that I believe were invaluable. I learned compassion while I helped my grandmother in her garden. I learned patience as I helped my neighbor clean out their garage. And I learned humility as I stood on the corner raising funds for school children in the Pacific. I have to admit that at first I resented my mother for volunteering me without consulting me, however, I learned to enjoy talking, joking and laughing while scrubbing, polishing, sweeping and painting. There was something life affirming about these tasks... and usually a treat or a tidbit from a thankful recipient.

As I hear my friends describe the trials and tribulations of parenting, I am concerned that there is no trace of these activities in the youth of today. Amongst the long list of activities, hobbies, sports and interests, that the average young person gets to enjoy these days how many young people donate ANY of their time selflessly for the benefit of others?
Amongst the many worthy causes or charities out there that are endlessly asking for money, help or assistance, how many of our children and young adults have assisted these causes in any way?

Empathy, selflessness and humanity are such important qualities to our existence and need to be instilled in our young people at the same time as we teach them other important life skills. If we don't fulfill this responsibility for our young people what type of society are we creating for future generations? What type of presidents, doctors, teachers, public policymakers are we unleashing on the world? How many caring institutes and organisations will exist to help anyone in need in the future?

Is it just me, or do you think this should be important too?