How Will You Serve?

Tonight: champagne a plenty. Tomorrow: sleeve-rolling-up time.

As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains. They have something to tell us today, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages. We honor them not only because they are guardians of our liberty, but because they embody the spirit of service; a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves. And yet, at this moment -- a moment that will define a generation -- it is precisely this spirit that must inhabit us all.

These were President Obama's words, spoken as he assumed the mantle of the presidency on this mind-blowing day.

And, in true generational form, his call to "find meaning in something greater than (myself)" prompts fresh navel-gazing: Where can I best apply my mind and heart to bring change to our nation and world?

I have always volunteered my time, but my true sense of service as a potent force for good was jettisoned some time between 5th grade and the "W" years, hardened by a self-protective layer of cynicism. I am meditating on how to reclaim the enthusiasm of the nine year old who once wrote to Bush the Elder with a surefire proposition to retire the national debt. (I was certain that it was easy -- all adults just needed to pay a bit more in taxes. I was proud of my mathematical abilities.)

And most importantly -- where shall I apply my time and talent to reap the greatest good? There is so much need. Of what am I uniquely capable? Of all the pressing issues, from the homeless guy sleeping outside my door to global environmental catastrophe, where do I start? I feel overwhelmed by options and possibility. One thing I know: I want my service to pry me from my comfort zone, and to result in tangible connections with other humans.

In my (short, because I am ready to get on to the business of thinking bigger than myself) search for my path of service, I am going to ask a simple question of my friends and acquaintances, hoping that their insights may help point the way:

How will you serve?