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In the Spirit of Giving
Submitted by Cindy of LightWorks Medical Intuition and Healing
As I was busy painting the other day, I was contemplating the subject of this article, and with no effort, my inspiration was as clear as the sun beaming through the panes of glass – Giving and Receiving.
The holiday season generates the notion of giving, most especially with physical gifts beautifully wrapped in bright, crisp paper and ribbons. Truly, it can be a pleasure to see the expression on a loved one’s face when they open a gift. In fact, it can be enjoyable to plan a shopping trip, especially when the event becomes social and dinner and a movie are involved. I would like to take the concept of giving a step further – dig a little deeper if I may.
Most traditions recognize the importance and the significance of giving, in fact, it is a universal law. One cannot receive without giving. Outflow determines inflow. The Chinese recognize this as the balance of yin and yang. Other sources, and certainly not inclusive, recognize this important notion, such as: The Bible, The Torah, The Tao Te Ching, and The Koran.
It is human nature to withhold what we believe we lack. If we feel we lack love, we do not love. If we feel we lack acceptance, we refuse to give acceptance. If we feel we lack recognition, we do not give recognition. If we feel we lack prosperity, we do not give money or items of material value.
Take a moment, look within, and ask yourself, “What is it I believe I lack?” This could very well be a moment of epiphany, and actually, this is where “Know Thyself” strongly becomes a reality. You have just empowered yourself by understanding your own nature.
Here is the tricky part – the part which you may resist. Start giving that which you believe you lack! Begin small. Notice the cashier who is ringing your items, probably works for minimum wage, and may have just worked a twelve hour shift. Is that person insignificant? Take a few seconds to give words of kindness – pay that person a compliment. Look them in the eye and thank them.
Another small step might be a prayer the next time you hear or see an ambulance. Take fifteen seconds and truly pray for that person who finds themselves in a scary, unpredictable, and perhaps life threatening situation. You may be the ONLY person asking for help for that individual.
Challenge yourself when it comes to giving. Is it easier to write a check and give to an organization as opposed to volunteering? If you have mastered check writing, move onto another means of giving. Keep in mind, there are many ways to help both humans and animals. Not all of us are a match for working in a soup kitchen. Try reading to the blind. Consider walking a dog that’s penned up in the county kennel. Ask your elderly neighbor if they need help shoveling the driveway or taking out the garbage. Perhaps you are learned in math – why not entertain tutoring underprivileged children? Why not take the time? Your endeavors will not only feel warm and fuzzy, but you have just increased your grace bank account!
Lastly, go within one more time. Ask yourself, “Do I need recognition for this?” If you have ever served the homeless, you understand it is likely you may not get a thank you. No matter, because God knows of your good deed. Let that be enough.
Let the season of giving be your inspiration for giving year round, no matter how small you deem the deed, and see how it changes your life.
In Light,
Cindy
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