Student Chosen Topic #5- Duncan Owen

 This past Sunday, I was given a great piece of advice. During our senior send-offs in my fraternity, all seniors have ~1 hour to give whatever advice they feel like giving to the chapter, in front of us. One-by-one, they went down the line, giving advice & telling stories for the undergrads. One of the seniors gave hands down, one of the best speeches & at the end, ripped up his CNU service distinction leader certificate & tossed it into the fire. For the last eight semesters, he served as a Bonner Scholar, providing over 400 hours of community service throughout his time. One of his points through his speech was that we should serve the lord for entry into heaven and that we should serve him not for recognition or awards. He said that throughout his time, he served for the lord & not receive an award. As a result, he tore up his prestigious certificate and tossed it into the fire. It was extremely inspiring & a great reminder of why we should volunteer & serve, and what our intentions. To be frank, nothing grinds my gears than individuals who have a savior complex & who always justify their ability in being a great Christian. A “good” Christian should let their actions speak louder than their words. Serve for the lord, not for recognition.

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