Having gone to Catholic schools in the 1950s, I grew up with the belief that making a contribution to the world was essential for mental and spiritual growth. It wasn’t just a religious mandate in those days, we also had a military service draft, the Peace Corps, and frequent food drives for the hungry. President Kennedy urged us to ask what we can do for our country. Each of my college application forms included a box in which applicants had to describe the contribution they wanted to make to the world.
The widespread desire of individuals to contribute to the general welfare gave way to steadily increasing [narcissism](https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/narcissism “Psychology Today…
Having gone to Catholic schools in the 1950s, I grew up with the belief that making a contribution to the world was essential for mental and spiritual growth. It wasn’t just a religious mandate in those days, we also had a military service draft, the Peace Corps, and frequent food drives for the hungry. President Kennedy urged us to ask what we can do for our country. Each of my college application forms included a box in which applicants had to describe the contribution they wanted to make to the world.
The widespread desire of individuals to contribute to the general welfare gave way to steadily increasing narcissism, and the ideal of selflessly contributing to the world all but faded from the national culture. Only the tax deductions for charitable donations saved most charities.
If we’re to break the chains of narcissism, I believe we must resurrect the motivation to contribute something positive to the world.
To contribute is to give something of value—time, effort, knowledge, kindness, or creativity—to others or to a cause larger than oneself. In doing so, we find purpose, communities grow stronger, and societies move forward.
At its heart, making a contribution is not about grand gestures or public recognition. It’s about an attitude—a commitment to improving the lives of others, however small the action may seem. A student tutoring a peer, a neighbor helping with groceries, an artist at work—all are making real and lasting contributions. Often, these everyday acts have ripple effects, inspiring others and creating a culture of generosity and cooperation.
Contribution also comes from understanding our strengths and using them to serve others. Some people have the gift of compassion, offering comfort to those in distress. Others are problem-solvers, finding ways to improve systems or solve community issues. Contributions do not need to be loud or visible; they need only to be authentic and driven by a desire to make the world a little better.
Making a positive contribution to the world gives life meaning. When people give of themselves for a greater good, they feel connected, valued, and fulfilled. It transforms passive existence into purposeful living. Even in challenging times, the desire to help others provides a sense of direction and resilience.
Making a contribution is one of the highest expressions of human nature. It nurtures both the giver and the receiver. Whether through small daily acts or larger life pursuits, each person can leave a positive mark. The question is not if we can contribute—but how we choose to do it.
Reflect on what you care about most in the world, and what kind of contribution you want to make to it. Just a few examples are: nurture and empower children, protect animals, build harmony, enhance public welfare, create or appreciate beauty, love, compassion, kindness, awareness.