Growing up, I was encouraged to get a good education, get a real

"Growing up, I was encouraged to get a good education, get a real job doing something I enjoyed, and, should the opportunity present itself, consider public service as just that: a chance to serve, not an end in itself." These words from John Sununu speak to a profound understanding of purpose, duty, and the balance between personal fulfillment and service to others. At its core, this quote reflects the value of education and work as means to a life of meaning—one that is not defined by the pursuit of power or personal gain, but by a deeper sense of contribution. For Sununu, public service is not a goal to be pursued for its own sake, but a responsibility that should be taken on when the opportunity arises, guided by the desire to serve the greater good.

The idea of service as a calling, rather than a destination, is one that has echoed throughout history. Consider the example of Socrates, whose life was devoted to the pursuit of wisdom and service to his fellow Athenians. Socrates did not seek power or wealth, but believed that the true purpose of life lay in the service of others, in the cultivation of the soul, and in the improvement of society. Just as Sununu was encouraged to focus on a meaningful education and career, Socrates’ life was a journey of learning and teaching—not for personal gain, but for the advancement of truth and the collective good.

In ancient Rome, Cincinnatus provides another striking example of the noble spirit of public service. A farmer by trade, he was called upon to serve as a consul during a time of crisis. Yet, after his duty was fulfilled, he returned to his farm, choosing the humble life over the pursuit of political power. Cincinnatus' story, celebrated for its selflessness, mirrors the teaching in Sununu’s words: that public service should be viewed as an opportunity to serve, not a means to personal advancement. His return to his simple life after fulfilling his duty serves as a timeless reminder that the true value of service lies in selflessness and humility, not in the pursuit of personal glory.

This notion is not limited to ancient history. Consider the life of George Washington, who could have sought a life of luxury and ease, yet chose to serve his country as its first president. After two terms in office, he voluntarily stepped down, refusing the temptation of power and choosing instead to return to his farm. Washington’s decision reflects the same principle that Sununu highlights—public service is a responsibility, not a career to be chased for its own sake. The legacy of Washington is one of humility and dedication to the well-being of others, a legacy that has inspired generations of leaders to prioritize the greater good over personal ambition.

In our own time, we can see echoes of this philosophy in leaders who have chosen to serve their communities and nations without seeking the limelight or personal rewards. Nelson Mandela, for example, spent 27 years in prison, not seeking power for himself, but driven by the higher purpose of ending apartheid and serving the people of South Africa. When Mandela became president, he did not remain in office to perpetuate his rule, but instead helped guide his country towards reconciliation and healing. His life embodies the selflessness Sununu speaks of—the understanding that service is an offering, a duty, and not an end in itself.

The lesson here is one of perspective and balance. It reminds us that in the pursuit of success, we should not lose sight of the greater purpose behind our actions. A good education and a meaningful job are not just for personal satisfaction or wealth, but should be seen as tools to serve others. Public service, when it comes, should not be about power but about giving back. It is about contributing to the well-being of society, and using whatever position or skill we have to improve the lives of those around us.

Let us, then, follow the example set forth by figures like Socrates, Cincinnatus, Washington, and Mandela—leaders who understood that true greatness is not measured by the power one accumulates, but by the selfless service one offers. In our own lives, we must be mindful that service is not about seeking recognition or advancement, but about dedicating ourselves to the greater good. Whether in our careers, communities, or personal relationships, let us ask not what we can gain, but how we can serve with honor and humility, for in this, we find the true measure of a life well lived.