Keeping Score

On one of my blogs (I know-- seriously, I have three) I recently reflected on the words of Elder Oaks. He spoke of what motivates us to serve, and how the most noble motive is love-- for the Savior or the recipient (it's all the same).

Often people serve out of sense of obligation, and although I believe that's not necessarily a bad thing, there are better reasons to serve. Sometimes we find ourselves in sticky situations. In said situations, there are often people who reach out to help us, if we let them (another blog for another day). When we receive that help or service, it's natural to want to return the favor.

Don't.

Serving out of a sense of obligation or indebtedness is hollow, and I'll tell you why. Service ought to originate from a sense of love. Although it is natural to want to pay someone back or return the favor, you shouldn't. This comes from a desire to be even with the person. Repaying someone for their kindness or generosity dispels the feelings of humility and in some cases, humiliation, and restores your pride, allowing you to go on feeling self-sufficient and independent. Simply stated, it's the easy way out.

If you truly want to repay someone for a gift they have given you, whether it be physical or not, love them. Get to know them better. Care about them, their life, their family, their job. Let their challenges become your concern, and their triumphs your happiness. And then, if you happen to feel like doing something for them, it will be for the right reason. Not to get even, not because they "deserve" it. But because you love them, and you want them to be happy.