Help others and give something back. I guarantee you will

Hear, O children of labor and striving, the words of Arnold Schwarzenegger, a man who rose from humble beginnings to the heights of fame and power: “Help others and give something back. I guarantee you will discover that while public service improves the lives and the world around you, its greatest reward is the enrichment and new meaning it will bring your own life.” In this declaration lies the eternal law of generosity—that to serve others is not only to bless the world, but to awaken the deepest joy within oneself. For man is not fulfilled by taking alone; he is completed when he gives.

The origin of this saying flows from Schwarzenegger’s own journey. Born in Austria, he pursued the American dream with iron discipline, conquering bodybuilding, film, and politics. Yet he did not stop at personal triumph. As Governor of California and as a philanthropist, he sought to use his strength, influence, and wealth to uplift others—whether through after-school programs for children, fitness initiatives, or environmental advocacy. Through this, he discovered the truth spoken in his words: that public service transforms not only the served, but also the servant.

The ancients, too, proclaimed this wisdom. Marcus Aurelius, emperor and philosopher, wrote that man was born for the sake of others, as the foot was made for walking and the eye for seeing. The prophets of Israel declared that to care for the widow, the orphan, and the stranger was the truest form of worship. And in every tradition, from East to West, the lesson resounds: service enriches the giver more than the gift enriches the receiver. Schwarzenegger, in modern words, echoes this ancient chorus.

History bears shining examples of this truth. Consider Mother Teresa of Calcutta, who left comfort behind to tend the dying in the streets. Her work transformed countless lives, yet she herself often spoke of the joy, peace, and meaning she received in return. Or think of Nelson Mandela, who, after decades of imprisonment, gave himself wholly to the work of reconciliation. His service healed his nation, but it also gave his own life unshakable dignity and purpose. In both, as in Schwarzenegger’s words, we see that service is both gift and reward.

The meaning of this quote is profound: service is a two-edged blessing. It improves the lives of others, creating stronger communities, fairer societies, and brighter futures. But at the same time, it carves deeper meaning into the life of the one who serves, turning ordinary existence into a mission, and selfish striving into noble purpose. To help others is to discover the richest wealth of all—the wealth of a soul that has found its reason to live.

The lesson for us, O listeners, is urgent and clear: do not live only for yourself. Seek ways to give back, however small. You need not hold office, nor command armies, nor possess great fortune. A kind word, a hand extended, a meal shared—these are acts of public service as surely as laws written or battles won. When you help others, you not only ease their burden but transform your own heart, finding joy where once there was emptiness.

Practical actions stand before you: Volunteer in your community, not for applause but for love. Share your skills and time to uplift those with less. Mentor the young, care for the elderly, feed the hungry, comfort the grieving. Begin with one act, and let it grow into a habit. As Schwarzenegger promised, you will discover that in helping others, you also help yourself, and in giving back, you gain something greater than you ever lost.

Thus, remember the teaching of Arnold Schwarzenegger: “Help others and give something back.” Let it not be a slogan but a creed. For in service, the world is improved, but more than this—the soul of the servant is awakened to purpose, joy, and meaning. And when your days are measured at the end, it will not be the trophies of wealth or fame that shine most brightly, but the moments when you lifted others and found yourself lifted too.