‘No one has ever become poor by giving’ : Anne Frank
It is extremely easy to be overwhelmed in the face of Covid-19 and the challenges it presents us with. A useful antidote to this situation is to be charitable. Giving to others is putting gratitude into action, and it allows us to feel that we can be of some use in these times.
Both the quote by Anne Frank and the Chinese proverb quoted above capture a wonderful quality of giving. When you give, you seem to end up with more than you had before. Willingly and joyfully giving miraculously seems to BLESS you with more than you gave up. There is no other word but BLESS to describe this awesome synergy.
Many have noted that in response to the Covid crisis spontaneous random acts of kindness and giving are occurring because of the (almost) unique human quality of altruism. Being selfless or other-minded significantly improves our sense of well-being and helps the community we live in.
There are three different forms of giving, all beginning with the letter “T”. One can give of one’s Time, Talent or Treasure. Whereas financial assistance is appreciated, giving of your time or talent is especially effective as it engages more of your intentional energy and being. This charity is especially rewarding.
As the lock-down constraints are reduced, there is expected to emerge a profound mental health challenge. The economic and employment disruptions will require governments and citizens to re-visit their willingness and ability to give to and share in the burdens of the pandemic victims.
If you are fortunate and not materially disadvantaged by this new-normal, please re-define your giving agenda. Make giving while you are living a larger priority. And explore the time and talent opportunities of your donation plan. You will become richer and more blessed as you give.
Please be kind, patient and thoughtful to your partner and others.
Reflection Source: www.Smallercup.org
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*: A Chinese proverb brought to my attention by Miguel Mayher