Why Service Is An Act Of Love
After a remarkable holiday to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary, I've returned with a heart full of joy and gratitude. During our journey, I read a book that touched my soul in ways I never expected.
The book in question is "Love Stories" by Trent Dalton and it is an absolute masterpiece. In fact, I'd go so far as to say it's now my second favourite book of all time, standing just behind Viktor Frankl's life-altering "Man's Search for Meaning", a book that significantly changed my outlook and thinking.
As I immersed myself in the world of "Love Stories," I found myself reflecting on the diverse range of emotions that Trent Dalton's writing evoked. He shared true stories, many of acts of love that were both moving and inspiring. It is not merely a collection of tales about romantic love; it encompasses love for family, community, justice, and even for complete strangers. Love, as I've come to realise, knows no bounds and extends to the service we provide every day. As Mother Teresa wisely said, ‘It's not about how much you do, but how much love you put into what you do that counts.’
With years spent on the frontline, I understand that the world of service isn't always smooth sailing. There are moments when it feels more like an exercise in patience or endurance, especially when dealing with challenging customers or team members. However, what if, even in those trying situations, we could see things through the lens of love and empathy? How might that change the way we interact with those before us?
Imagine a world where every act of service is fuelled by love. Picture every email, every phone call, every in-person interaction, and every coaching conversation brimming with love. I'm confident that many of us already serve with this level of care, whether we consciously choose it or it simply comes naturally.
Reading "Love Stories" moved me to tears countless times. My concerned husband would glance at me and ask “Are you OK? You are crying again!” And the answer is simple: It was the power of love, the strength it holds, and the transformation it can bring to someone's life and day that brought me to tears many times over.
While my usual literary preferences lean towards non-fiction, work-related books that delve into service, leadership and motivation, "Love Stories" transported me to a place where I couldn't help but reflect on the love that thrives within our customer service community, the impact of our work, and the profound difference our community makes in people's lives every single day.
In a world where love is needed more than ever before, let's come together and embrace the incredible potential of putting more love into service. It has the power to change the world, one interaction at a time.
