Is It All About Personal Gain?

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to believe that everything revolves around personal gain. We’re constantly told that accumulating more wealth, possessions, and status will bring us happiness. Yet, many people still feel disconnected, dissatisfied, and lost.

Bartolo contrasts this with Mariella’s experience, where she finds purpose in serving others rather than chasing prosperity or accolades.

Giving, Not Receiving, Is Key To Happiness

Bartolo’s take is particularly compelling because he gets right to the heart of the issue. While acknowledging that we live in a society built on self-interest, he presents an alternative viewpoint: real happiness comes from giving, not receiving.

He explores the idea that while society teaches us that success is measured by material possessions, individuals like Mariella show that true success is about what we give to others.

Mariella’s Story: Transforming Lives Through Volunteering

Mariella’s story is a powerful example of how volunteering can shift us away from self-preservation and greed.

In her L-Għaliex interview, she shares her experiences working in Kenya, where she helps create safe homes for children who are neglected or living in dangerous conditions.

While her work undoubtedly has a transformative effect on the children’s lives, Bartolo highlights how Mariella’s volunteer efforts have given her life renewed energy and a deeper sense of purpose.

Rather than feeling drained by her dedication, Mariella returns from Kenya invigorated. Bartolo notes the stark contrast between those who chase wealth and prestige and end up feeling empty, versus those who contribute to society and find a sense of fulfilment that money can’t buy.

The Psychological Benefits Of Volunteering

Bartolo’s reflection goes beyond praising Mariella’s work—he takes the opportunity to examine the broader psychological benefits of volunteering.

Helping others, Bartolo argues, can be a powerful antidote to the rise in mental health issues like anxiety and depression. He emphasizes how volunteer work fosters a sense of community and belonging, while our consumer-driven world often leaves us feeling isolated and disconnected.

Mariella’s experience in Kenya has instilled in her a profound sense of gratitude. She explains how witnessing the children’s struggles has made her appreciate the privileges she enjoys back home. Bartolo underscores this as one of the key psychological benefits of volunteering—it forces us to pause, reflect, and cultivate gratitude for what we have.

A Remedy For Materialism

Volunteering, Bartolo concludes, serves as a reminder that real joy comes from giving, not receiving. In a world where many are constantly searching for more—whether it’s money, possessions, or recognition—Mariella’s story is a breath of fresh air. It shows how giving back can provide a much-needed sense of purpose and fulfilment that is often missing in a materialistic society.

Bartolo points out that volunteering can be a powerful way to address feelings of isolation, disconnection, and purposelessness, especially for those struggling with mental health issues.

Finding Meaning In A Divided World

The dominant narrative today is that personal gain and financial success are life’s ultimate goals. But Bartolo’s latest reflections provides a much-needed counterpoint.

Through Mariella’s story, he shows that there’s another way to live—one that values community, purpose, and selflessness over individual achievement and wealth.

What makes this episode especially captivating is Bartolo’s conversational, relatable style. He encourages viewers to reflect on the deeper meaning of life and speaks directly to their hearts.

This reflection is not only a tribute to Mariella’s extraordinary work in Kenya, but also a call to action for anyone feeling trapped in the cycle of materialism.

Bartolo urges viewers to look beyond their own interests and consider how they can discover purpose by giving back. He reminds us that you don’t need to travel to Kenya to make a difference—there are countless opportunities to volunteer and engage meaningfully within your own community.

In a time when the world feels more divided and self-interested than ever, Bartolo’s reflection on L-Għaliex serves as a powerful reminder that there’s more to life than the pursuit of personal gain.

Mariella’s story shows that true fulfillment comes from helping others, and Bartolo’s contemplations offer guidance for those searching for meaning in a society that often prioritises the wrong things.

This episode of L-Għaliex is a must-watch for anyone who wants to break free from the pressures of modern life and rediscover what really matters. You can watch the latest episode below: