Marian Wright Edelman: 'Service is the rent we pay for being. It is the very purpose of life, and not something you do in your spare time.'

Service is the rent we pay for being. It is the very purpose of life, and not something you do in your spare time.

In the words of Marian Wright Edelman, "Service is the rent we pay for being. It is the very purpose of life, and not something you do in your spare time." This powerful quote encapsulates the essence of the importance of service in our lives. It suggests that service is not an optional activity to be engaged in only when we have spare time, but rather an intrinsic part of our existence, a responsibility we owe to ourselves and to the world around us.At first glance, this quote serves as a reminder that our lives are not solely about self-fulfillment and personal ambitions. It emphasizes the significance of giving back and being of service to others. Service, in this context, can take various forms - from volunteering in our community, helping those in need, or simply offering a helping hand to a friend or family member. It is an expression of empathy, compassion, and the understanding that we are all interconnected.Yet, let's delve further into this concept and introduce an unexpected philosophical perspective. While Edelman's quote beautifully highlights the importance of service in our lives, there exists a fascinating contrast between the idea of service as a 'rent' and a concept known as existentialism. Existentialism, a philosophical school of thought popularized by thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus, explores individual freedom, responsibility, and the search for meaning in life.From an existentialist standpoint, the idea of service being a 'rent' might initially seem contradictory to the concept of individual freedom. Existentialism emphasizes personal choice and the importance of creating our own purpose in life. Service, in this view, is not something we owe, but rather a choice we make as free individuals seeking to find meaning in our existence.However, when we reconcile these seemingly opposing perspectives, a deeper understanding emerges. Edelman's quote reflects the idea that service is not just about fulfilling obligations or societal expectations but is also an avenue through which we can create our own purpose. It is in the act of service that we discover our interconnectedness with others and find meaning in our lives.Moreover, the idea of service being the 'rent we pay for being' suggests that service is not solely about benefiting others but is also a means of self-discovery and personal growth. By engaging in service, we expand our horizons, gain new perspectives, and cultivate compassion and empathy. It is through acts of service that we truly become alive, fulfilling our purpose in life.In conclusion, Marian Wright Edelman's quote, "Service is the rent we pay for being. It is the very purpose of life, and not something you do in your spare time," reminds us of the significance of service in our lives. It emphasizes the need to go beyond our individual pursuits and contribute to the well-being of others and our communities. While there may exist philosophical debates around the idea of service as a 'rent,' the reconcilable notion of service as a choice aligned with existentialist principles demonstrates that service is not only a responsibility but also a means of self-discovery and personal growth. Ultimately, service is an integral part of being human and a profound way to find meaning in our lives.