Volo means “I want,” “I wish,” or “I am willing.” Meanwhile, voluntas translates to “will” or “desire.” VOLUNTEERISM has always been my life’s tenet.
“Si Arman napud.” “Si Arman nalang oh.” “Si Arman kay gusto na niya.” “Si Arman kay bida bida.” “Si Arman.“
My service begins with a calling—an internal spark that pushed me beyond my comfort zone and back into the world of volunteerism. For many, it starts with curiosity, a simple desire to make a difference, or perhaps an invitation from a friend. However, this path was once put on hold for me and is now being rekindled.
I’ve frequently been viewed as the person who can’t say no, which is a rewarding and difficult personality trait. I have a natural tendency to go above and above because I want to help, even if it means sacrificing my own wellbeing in the process. My natural tendency is to help others, to put their needs ahead of my own.
Over the past two years, accepting different responsibilities and roles has made me realize that I have been going
beyond— what was expected, and beyond what was required. But at the heart of volunteerism, we always go beyond obligation. Even when there is no requirement to serve, we choose to serve.
Even when there is no requirement to serve, we choose to serve.
Volunteering itself is an act of going above and beyond, we are already serving above and beyond by simply accepting various possibilities. For the simple reason that we choose to, we offer more than is necessary or anticipated. However, saying yes to every opportunity should be a choice, not a burden. For those of us who always say yes, I remind myself to evaluate: Is this a genuine commitment? Will my service still be meaningful if I spread myself too thin? Being in JCI, I am not just giving my time—I am also contributing my skills, knowledge, abilities, and resources.
Saying yes two years ago, and accepting this role today, is an intentional choice, not an obligation. To accept these responsibilities wholeheartedly, despite knowing there is no financial gains, is the purest form of serving above and beyond—a reflection of selflessness, dedication, and a purpose-driven action.
Because genuine voluntarism ultimately focuses on what we become rather than what we get. Those of us who “can’t say no”, we just keep going.
And so, “Ako napud” “Ako na” “Ako kay gusto nako” “Ako kay bida bida ko” “Ako”.
Hindi kaya dapat “Jollibee” ang pangalan ko?
