Upon reading the words "community service," a recollection of memories surfaced within my mind. A specific instance was in Guangzhou, Guangdong. This past summer, I had the opportunity to strengthen personal bonds with children that lived nearly 8,000 miles away from me. The children, who were stripped of parental guidance throughout their entire lives, were yearning for people to mold them into figures that they could one day be proud of. Before I approached the center, I foresaw my day as being humdrum and mundane at best. However, this was far from valid.

When the doors were finally opened, I gained entrance into what would become the best experience of my life. These abandoned children were drawing with broken crayons, playing with dilapidated toys, and crying uncontrollably. Several volunteers and I immediately began to form bonds with the children by socializing and offering them some of our own personal possessions. The days were filled with lessons that could not be found in any textbook. Whether it was sharing, safety hazards, or respect to others, the children viewed us as their mentors.

Although I was required to volunteer only twice per week, I decided to increase my visits because I felt as if I was undergoing a self-revelation through this experience. Currently attending a Jesuit high school, God has been a strong presence throughout my entire life. The energy that surged throughout my body was purely spiritual even up to this point. Each and every child had special interests. They mirrored me when I was young. Everyday I watched reflections of myself running around, laughing, and learning from mistakes. It was as if I relived my past days of being a toddler.

Upon my departure, the children used their newly learned English to say, “Good Bye, Thank you, and Come Back.” Yes. Come Back. That was a great idea.

After my graduation from high school, I plan to return and to make an even larger impact on that center. Several volunteers and I staggered our influences throughout our times there and greatly improved the overall conditions of the center. We gave what was never there to begin with.

The idea of community service can be broadened to include any area within the world. The range starts from your local animal shelter to other endless possibilities. There is no limit or spectrum that could halt your desire to serve and give back. This is the real definition of community service.