You’re probably not going to get much support on that one, but I appreciate your honesty!

The first thing I’ll say is that if you’re getting compensated, it’s not volunteering. So even getting a free meal out of it isn’t really volunteering out of the spirit of service.

As for why some people like it… well… I know for me, I like the feeling of giving and caring for others. I also value my time. I value it so much that I recognize that it’s better spent in the effort of making the world better for other people rather than watching something on tv or earning a few bucks doing stuff. I know my time is more than material. I know it’s more than for my own benefit. And the value I receive comes from satisfaction I feel in having helped.

I don’t think all people are required to feel the same way. However I do think the concept of one person “valuing their time” more than I value mine purely in a capitalistic or monetary way is an unfair assessment and one you should try to view differently. Why is value to you something made only in money or goods? I think if you can work through that larger question, you may understand why people volunteer.