The world we live in today presents opportunities at a scale never before seen in human history. Alas, despite its niceties and pleasures and comforts, it is also wrought with challenges, issues and noise. It can, and has, been difficult for many to find their purpose in life amidst all the chaos, fun and confusion. We are constantly told of a shiny new product we must purchase, or how a new technology will change our lives, or, more recently, of wars and conflicts erupting across different parts of the world.
There comes a time, however, either in spite of or because of what is happening around the world, where one must ask themselves what it is that they want to do with their time alive on Earth. We are all only growing older, and youth is fleeting. It is in times like this, when the moment comes at last to define what we will do with our lives, when guidance and inspiration – both from people still alive and those who have long since passed – are most useful, I have found.
I am, on this 2nd of April 2024, 25 years of age and standing on the cusp of adulthood. As I stand before the road ahead, I find myself reflecting on the kind of life I want to lead. This, I think of on the basis of the impact I want to make on the world around me, and not merely on material possessions or even the years of life I might be fortunate enough to accumulate.
Therefore, I declare unequivocally that my life, whether long or short, will be dedicated to service – service to my family, service to my country, and service to humankind at large.
My journey towards this commitment has been shaped by the remarkable individuals who have walked before me, and I consider myself very lucky indeed to have had the opportunity to learn from them. First and foremost among my heroes, are my parents – all four of them. Their unwavering love, sacrifice and dedication to providing for the family have been the guiding light of my upbringing. They all have taught me the value of hard work, empathy, and selflessness; qualities I aim to embody in my own life.
Marie Curie, the pioneering scientist, stands as a beacon of inspiration for me. Her groundbreaking work in the field of radiology not only revolutionised science but also saved countless lives. Despite the challenges she faced, she persevered with a determination and passion worthy of admiration and respect.
Alexander Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of the United States, epitomises the spirit of service to country. From his humble beginnings as an orphaned child to his pivotal role in shaping the future of that nation, Hamilton’s dedication to his ideals was unwavering. Hamilton’s legacy has taught me that service to country requires a steadfast commitment to the greater good.
Mwalimu Julius Nyerere – the first president of the United Republic and indeed the father of the nation – towers above as a paragon of peace. Through his use of peaceful and non-violent means, Nyerere secured Tanganyika’s (later Tanzania, following the Articles of Union) independence from British colonial rule. His legacy has taught me the value of peaceful means in the pursuit of service.
Somewhat ironically perhaps, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II also stands for me as a hero in the service of humankind. Her seventy years of endurance and stoicism through the troubled times of the Second World War and the Cold War have taught me the value of strength and tenacity in the face of adversity.
In embracing a life of service, I am driven by a profound sense of responsibility towards by fellow human beings. Whether through acts of kindness in my everyday interactions or through larger endeavours aimed at addressing societal challenges, I am determined to make a positive difference. I believe that true fulfilment lies not in the pursuit of personal gain, but in the service of others.
For my family, I will strive to be a pillar of support, offering love, guidance, and encouragement. For my country, I will dedicate myself to the values of progress, republicanism and justice, working towards a more fair and prosperous society. And for humankind at large, I will endeavour to contribute at whatever scale, to the great library of human knowledge and creations, and strive to leave behind a legacy of compassion and empathy, knowing that even the smallest act of service can have a ripple effect that reverberates far beyond my own lifetime.
I stand firm in my declaration that my life will be one of service. Inspired by the examples set forth by my parents and many other people before me, I am committed to making a meaningful impact in the world. Regardless of the obstacles in my path or the challenges I may face, I will continue to serve with humility, integrity and compassion, knowing that in doing so, I am playing my part as a member of the great and wonderful family that is the human race.