When my kids were small, they always wanted to help me do everything – brush my teeth, tie my shoe, clean up, cook – it didn’t matter what the job was – we were in it together. I also have a cat now that, at the very least, wants to oversee my progress.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could bottle that enthusiasm? That intense desire to help – regardless of the job? As toddlers, kids don’t get upset if one job is more prestigious than another because the act of helping itself is prestigious. When a child, or anyone for that matter, is honored and respected for their desire to help,  they do it with a joyful spirit and an open heart.

Helping others or volunteering one’s time is both a reward and often a luxury. Volunteering allows you to leave a situation feeling better yourself after having given of yourself. Unfortunately, for some, the joy of volunteering is a luxury they can’t afford because they work too many hours, have too many jobs, don’t have the funds to purchase supplies, or can’t afford to miss time.

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about the Humanity First movement. It’s the first time in my memory that I have heard a presidential candidate make a concerted effort to get his supporters to pledge service hours to illustrate the heart and spirit of his campaign. In fact, there are a lot of firsts I’ve noticed. This is the first time in my life that a presidential candidate has respected and valued people enough to propose a benefit for all that would dramatically improve so many lives without requiring a pound of flesh. This is the first time that I’ve seen a candidate who is confident enough in himself to not have to tear others down on the debate stage. In fact, more often than not, he is building others up. This is the first time in many, many years that I have felt real hope. Not touchy-feely good vibes, but real actionable, policy-based,  hope that feels like a way forward instead of more of the same.

I generally avoid getting political on here because it tends to be more of a divider. Still, in this case, I’m breaking my own norms because the Humanity First candidate isn’t Left – isn’t Right – he is the path forward, and I’m so glad that help is on the way.

Andrew Yang 2020