GIVING FROM THE HEART

There is a definite difference between giving from the heart and giving with the expectation of something in return. I call giving from the heart, "Giving for the Sake of Giving."

There are people who give away things that they don't need, and that is a nice gesture, but it doesn't truly show any act of charity or kindness, not in my book. I guess it is nicer than throwing the stuff away, but a true act of charity is more than that.

It's dedication to humanity. It's volunteering your time. It's standing up for those who can't defend themselves. It's driving an elderly person to the store and helping them shop. It's serving meals at the local soup kitchen. It's babysitting your neighbor's children voluntarily. It's sending money anonymously to someone you know has a need without thought of recompense.

It's giving the shoes on your feet to a homeless person (I know someone who actually did this!). It's giving a box of food to someone who has a family to feed, even if it means you have to go to the store again. It's saving your hand-me-downs for that single parent. It's giving someone a nice gift in-between holidays just because.

There are so many ways to give from the heart. It's staying the extra time to help someone in need, even knowing you may not get paid in the end (knowing what comes around goes around may help here). It's picking up the stranded woman with an infant on the side of the road and helping her get home.  It's volunteering anywhere.

It's walking home from work so that your spouse can have the car. It's so many things. There are so many ways to show kindness. And like attracts like, so kindness is bound to return to you somehow. Sometimes in ways you least expect.

I am reminded of the story of Ruth in the Bible. The kindness she showed by remaining with Naomi, her mother-in-law, after her husband died was repaid later when heard about by Boaz.

The Good Samaritan in the Bible also comes to mind. I'll bet that guy passed it forward.

Normal people appreciate it when someone lends a helping hand. And sometimes, it can start the greatest and longest lasting friendships. I have helped and been helped in my life, and there is no greater feeling than giving from the heart!