CDT278
The Way of Perfect Service
Introduction, PWOS, Top52
(2) CDs: 12.95
This year, on his 63rd birthday, E.J. announced that for the evening he would give a talk on "The Way of Perfect Service."
It began with dinner and opening presents in the dining room. The room overflowed and the standing guests were so crowded that the group spilled into the hallway trying to get a glimpse of the festivities. We then adjourned to the music studio to preview the first recordings of E.J. playing his new Gemeinhardt flute, a gift he wished to honor.
Next, the group moved back to the house to set up chairs in the mood of anticipation about the talk to come. E.J. Asked for Jewel, who was in the kitchen preparing to serve the cake, to come and ask her birthday question. She explained that her everyday life was very busy and she wished for something more . . . to put her efforts toward being of meaningful sevice. Michele's birthday question was essentially the same. Both questions inevitably and quite naturally made a segue into the subject of perfect service.
E.J. reportedly emphasized that perfect service is about endless, selfless dedication to doing what needs to be done without regard for the relative importance of the task. When asked about what is meaningful, he talked about right action, giving stories to elucidate examples of being in the right place at the right time with the right attitude.
Synopsis
The talk revolves around the concept of "perfect service," which is defined as selfless, unending, unquestioning dedication to service without thought of reward, validation, or personal agenda. The speaker discusses the difference between those who seek something for themselves and those who serve fully. Service, when done correctly, is about doing what needs to be done at the right time with the right attitude, without measuring significance or seeking recognition.
Summary
The speaker explores the essential nature of perfect service, emphasizing that true service is done without expectation of thankfulness, recognition, or personal gain. The discussion is spurred by questions about purpose and meaningful service, particularly in relation to higher aspirations.
Personal anecdotes illustrate key points, including a story about fixing a sprinkler on instinct and an account of organizing a gallery exhibit, demonstrating how seemingly small actions collectively contribute to a greater purpose. The talk highlights the importance of attitude, contrasting those who serve without question with those whose eventual withdrawal stems from personal concerns or selfish motivations.
Various examples of community service are provided, from maintaining communal spaces to executing large events. The speaker underscores the necessity of a team, where individuals contribute their unique skills to make larger goals possible. The qualities valued in this path—unselfish dedication, willingness to act without questioning, and continued effort regardless of fatigue—are framed as prerequisites for lasting participation in the work.
The concept of right action from Buddhist teachings is invoked, emphasizing timely, purposeful engagement without calculating one’s own needs. The speaker also notes that those who remain in meaningful service without falling into personal agendas are those who find survival within the work. Ultimately, the reward of perfect service is the continued ability to serve, and all notions of rest, self-indulgence, or seeking recompense are seen as opposing this ideal.
Keywords & Key Phrases
- Perfect service
- Right action
- Unending service
- Selfless dedication
- Meaningful service
- Personal agenda
- Chopping wood, carrying water
- Feeding the ball
- Higher service
- No personal recognition
- Attitude in work
- Serving the work
- Serving without expectation
- Daily grind as service
- Giving without limit
- No escape pod
- Service versus validation
- What about me?
- Unquestioning action
- Being in the right place
- Without reservation
Graphic Prompt
A surreal, ethereal scene depicting a lone figure sweeping an endless desert under a vast cosmic sky. The figure’s shadow stretches infinitely, blending into the stars. The brushstrokes of the broom leave behind golden glowing patterns, symbolizing unseen service. The atmosphere is mystical and introspective, embodying dedication without recognition. The color palette is deep blues, silvers, and soft golds, evoking a timeless, dreamlike quality.