Genuine service has nothing to do with getting anything – not even with the satisfaction of knowing that we have modified a situation so that it now conforms to our image of how we think it should be. Any time we try to “improve” a situation – to make it over in our own image – we can only do so by imposing our will on it. This does nothing but create a new tension, yet it is what most people have in mind when they talk about helping others.

-- Swami Chetanananda

And:

Compassionate service helps to alleviate the pain of those who are suffering. But its greater value lies in purifying the minds and hearts of those who render it. The satisfaction and joy you derive from rendering selfless service to someone in need is immense and everlasting. However, there is one danger – feeding your ego by identifying yourself as a generous, compassionate person. This is destructive both to you and to those to whom you render service.

-- Pandit Rajmani Tigunait

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