The Meaningful Work of "The Work"

Wes Moore’s book “The Work” tells the story of his life as a professional.  The book gives valuable insight into the life of a man dedicated to public service.  Interestingly, Moore did not always serve in positions that allowed him to further his cause.  Early on in his life, Moore worked in investment banking.  Although being paid very well, Moore felt there was more that he should be doing, his work just wasn’t as meaningful as he thought it could be. 

This feeling eventually led him to leave banking and join the 1^st Brigade of the 82^nd Air-borne Division.  This bold career move revolved around his desire to pursue meaningful work.  While in the military Moore recalls, “We had good days and bad days, but at the end of each day, you could lay your head down and know that your being there meant something to the soldiers you worked with.  That sense of purpose and relevance was something I’d been yearning for” (75).  This passage in particular resonated with me in terms of both my personal life and my work with SuperKids. 

Personally, I feel called to pursue work, and eventually a career, that is meaningful.  I’ve had this feeling for a while, but it was strongly reinforced during my freshman year of college.  At Baylor, students are able to take the StrengthsFinder test to find out more about their natural talents.  When I took the test, I discovered that one of my top strengths is ‘Belief.’ 

Belief focuses on values, and what you value should mesh well with your work.  The work must be meaningful and it must matter to the individual.  Whatever career that I do pursue, I have decided that I will do my best ensure it aligns with my values.  This goal manifests in many different ways, but most recently has brought me over one thousand miles to serve as a counselor intern for SuperKids Camp.

My work at SuperKids is beyond meaningful.  Not only does it directly impact myself and my campers, but also anyone who wants to see the next generation succeed.  This is a direct result of the mission of the camp.  SuperKids is meaningful because it has dedicated itself to making a positive impactful with the youth of Baltimore.  I want to be a part of this impact.  It is an even bigger honor to be making this impact with a cohort just as dedicated.  I am grateful for the opportunity to serve this community in such a way that is both motivating and inspiring.  This is exactly the kind of work that Wes Moore mentions at length in “The Work.”