Developing a Desire to Serve
The first step to success in serving is to have the desire. When we desire to serve with all our hearts, we will be much more sensitive to perceive the ways and opportunities to do so. Often, we imagine that results will only be achieved if we develop giant actions and projects, when, in fact, success is not necessarily measured by the scale of the service, but rather by whether our actions can reach the people who need us and, in some way, improve their lives. This can be through legal guidance, a game, a conversation, or a hug. By thinking and acting this way, everything that happens will be a consequence. The important thing is to step out of our
"bubble."
Identifying Strengths and Connections
Speaking specifically about service in the JRCLS, we can first think about the strengths we have within our own chapter. Each leader and member certainly knows people and entities that can join efforts with us, and vice versa. And that is so fantastic! Often, we can partner with an existing project or initiative developed by a social group, philanthropic entity, church, school, company, or government. In situations of natural disasters or public calamities, we can act promptly in conjunction with public authorities, police, fire departments, NGOs, etc. We can also use commemorative dates and think of an action to attract and serve a specific audience, such as: actions aimed at the elderly on Grandparents' Day; women in situations of vulnerability and/or domestic violence on International Women's Day (month); projects for autistic children; Christmas campaigns in a shelter, etc.
Linking Communities
The interesting thing is that as love materializes through service, the JRCLS naturally becomes a strong link and a reference for other groups and organizations. For example, on January 21 of this year, I had the privilege and honor of being invited as a representative of the JRCLS to participate in an event organized by the municipal government of my city in favor of the Right to Religious Freedom. On that occasion, I was able to present to political and religious leaders and authorities a bit of the work carried out by the Law Society and also by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This meeting certainly resulted in new contacts and more opportunities to serve in the community.