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Global Citizen

While growing up, all I ever heard was how our generation is going to be our society's future. As a recently turned 18-year old, I have come to acknowledge that the little you may do for the community may make a difference to society as a whole. With this in mind, the benefits of volunteering are endless; getting back in satisfaction and joy more than one can ever expend in inconvenience and effort. My time, efforts, and financial support will be an enormous benefit to those struggling for international relief and peace.

To be a Global Citizen is to be aware of what is going on in the world and to have the desire and time to contribute to development causes. Activism has played a fundamental role in the formation of our democratic as well as international society.

Through the United States Constitution, the First Amendment guarantees the right to speak out and to be heard. Through efforts, activism helps solve of our global problems and builds bonds of trust among people. Because you support a cause you truly believe in, volunteering is an enriching experience.

The reimbursements of volunteering are infinite, such as gaining self-esteem. Not only do you gain self-esteem, but also you acquire leadership skills while creating new friendships. You also attain practical work experience while developing personal talents, skills, and hobbies. I have always tried to give "my two cents" and do the little I can do, knowing that to someone else it may mean a lot.

This year has been the year in which I have been most involved because I have more time on my hands since I am no longer in drill team. I have joined the Marine Awareness and Conservation Club and Student Council, clubs that are supported by the school. Through the Marine Awareness and Conservation Club, students have had the ability to teach others about science and the value of our environment. Personally, I have learned more about science using personal skills and talents to strengthen science education in this area.

What impacted me the most and motivated me to volunteer more than I used to was to a recent statement made by President Bush asking the nation to volunteer. He said, "What individual Americans do is more important than anything government does. We must all heed to Albert Schweitzer's counsel: 'The only ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve.' "

Since then, I have assisted with community activities such as the City of South Houston Carnival, annual-beach cleanups, and Shoes for Kids. In addition, I have participated in city parades and decorated for the 2002 Project Graduation. I have received in return self-satisfaction and pride knowing that I have contributed to the nation and the world as an exemplary citizen.

On a final note, being a Global Citizen is spending your time and effort for those struggling for international relief and peace. Volunteering is meant to build the capacity of the staff of an organization, as well as those that the organization serves. It is another way for people to connect with each other through various walks of life all over the world. I have learned over time that a person can be a good citizen not only by lending a hand but also by doing other acts of kindness such as giving compliments and showing gratitude.

Mother Teresa once said, "Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless." With this in mind, it is vital to say a kind word to someone at least once a day. The values we live by are worth more when we pass them on.

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