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A New Year’s Resolution – To Give
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.
For many of us, the holiday season generated the notion of giving and the giving may have taken many forms: a beautifully wrapped package to a loved one, a cash donation to Salvation Army, or clothes to the needy. But what happens after the holidays are over? Are we less apt to give for the next eleven months? 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 concept, 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 unconditional love, we do not love unconditionally. 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 whole heartedly.
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. Remember – “Ask and it is Given.”
Challenge yourself when it comes to giving. Is it easier to write a check to an organization as opposed to volunteering? If you have mastered check writing, move onto another means of giving. Step into the zone of what seems uncomfortable and ask yourself, “Why does this make me feel uncomfortable?” We all have fears – I refer to them as “Bag Lady” fears. Are you uneasy about working with the indigent because you are afraid you may become indigent? Starting one’s own business can stir up such fears. Fear can make one hold on tighter to what we believe we lack.
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, so entertain 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. You may be surprised.
In Light,
Cindy– LightWorks Medical Intuition and Healing
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