Values We Should All Share

There are two strong values that I have which I feel should be inherent in everyone of this world, this country, and most importantly, in the social work field. My purpose of writing this blog is to bring awareness to you so these values can be practiced. I believe that altruism and self awareness are within us all if we pay attention.

I was fortunate enough to be raised by two loving parents who taught me to watch out for and take care of others. Growing up in the United States though and especially in my lifetime, we have been schooled to compete against each other and to not trust strangers. I believe that this has driven our society to a point where we avoid eye contact and greetings when passing by each other in public.

When I visited Cambodia this past winter, there was something magical present which I could not identify until I was home and had some time to reflect on the experience. I now can label this magic as altruism. Altruism is the unselfish regard for the welfare of others. Before going to Cambodia I only planned on an in-n-out mission to explore the Angkor Temple Ruins as many readings cautioned one’s safety. Gee, did this ring untrue! Every single person that I caught eyes with, lit up with the biggest smiles I have ever seen. No matter where you were, if you looked puzzled or scared, the Khmer people would instantly offer you comfort and their assistance. Everyone gave to one another, whether it be rides, food, or money without any question. The ability to share with everyone radiates peace and is quite contagious. Altruism is a value that we should all have as we are all beings that share the same planet.

The second value that I would like to discuss is self awareness. Self awareness is a person's awareness of self with regard to position, time, place, and personal relationships. This is of upmost importance when interacting with others, collaborating with others, and leading others. This is also something that I feel I have a solid grasp of and feel that everyone else should easily grasp as well. However, I have found this not to be so true. Over the past few years, I have been in a relationship, had friendships, and interacted with others who do not listen to the other half of the conversation. Many of these people push their agenda, pause only to think about what they are going to say next, and are oblivious to the fact that these behaviors are causing people to tune them out. Rather than get frustrated at this selfishness, I analyze these behaviors and realize that it is a lack of self awareness that is at the root of the people who share this mentality. I mean not to be rude toward anyone, I would just like to bring attention toward practicing self awareness.


If everyone shared a sense of self awareness and altruism, the world would become a peaceful planet!