Jesse A. Schroeder

This quote was a cornerstone for my presentation on Leadership for Service at the HOBY Ohio South Conference this past weekend. And I feel like this quote describes my life right now. I spent four full days with HOBY, putting in time and energy to empower the student leaders of today who will, of course, be the future leaders of tomorrow. As soon as I came home, Kellye and I continued to work hard on preparations for our trip to Guatemala that is taking place in only a few weeks. My life has recently become a rapid sequence of meeting folks around town, making connections, collecting supplies, and organizing service events and projects. 

And I love it. 

It is exciting to connect with people for a cause greater than ourselves. It is inspiring to see the work that is being done around the world in efforts to make a difference in people's lives. (For an amazing example, check out Flying Horse Farms). It is humbling when people give us donations to take to Guatemala. It is encouraging to hear stories of projects and activities that other people are doing. We begin to network, connect, encourage, share, challenge, and continue to serve together. 

Happiness is elusive - even in the wealthiest and most blessed country in the world. But I agree with Schweitzer - if you seek and find what it really means to serve, you will find happiness.