Giving

Giving is a part of everyone’s daily life. Some giving goes on reflexively as we interact with each other and our environment. On the other hand, knowing when, where and how to give consciously so as to have a positive impact is an art we can work on our entire lives.

People give on many levels. At one level, we give prayers, hopes, advice, on another level; we give to friends, family or strangers whom we encounter. We may also give of time, effort or money. We could give through service in an NGO, using gifts or talent in a church, or giving back to the community. The essence of all giving has to do with sharing the love that you are.

The greatest giver this world has ever known was Jesus Christ. Leaving behind the riches and glory of His heavenly kingdom, He came to Earth and willingly gave His life so that we could keep ours. Giving should be done with a clear motive. We should not give out of arrogance, to oppress or fit in, to massage our egos, giving out of fear or guilt or giving to get back. It is always good to check our motives for giving.

Giving should be an essential part of daily life, a way of living and being that occurs unconsciously with every breath. Let us continue to strive for the utmost form of giving - from fullness, from deep within, and to extend the love we are with every thought, word and action.