Selfless GIFTS

We’re counting down the days to Christmas and everyone is busy preparing for a time of celebration, giving and sharing.

In a celebratory mood, we sometimes get carried away by our own needs and wants that we forget there are many who are not as fortunate to enjoy such abundance.

As an individual or an organisation, have we reflected on our attitude of giving? Are we giving for the purpose of receiving something in return, or do we give readily and unconditionally?

Or, are we holding back our blessings to others because we live in a mindset of scarcity whereby we believe that the more we give, we lose something and become “poorer”?

All blessings flow

Les Brown, a world renowned motivational speaker, in his talk on The Power of Giving, explains that whenever we give, we are actually giving to ourselves. How is that so?

Brown likens giving as passing on a gift in circles. The gift will eventually come back to us as long as everyone keeps on passing it in the circle.

He also clarifies that when we give, a vacuum is created for new blessings to flow in. That is why people who volunteer to help others are reportedly happier because they live with a purpose in life and a sense of connectedness with others.

On the other hand, when we hold back our giving, we somewhat “short circuit” the flow of blessing into our lives.

So, what gives?

Giving should not be limited to just finances or material things. Instead, it ought to extend to gifts that makes a positive impact or a difference in the life of the recipient.

In this regard, we can identify some of these efforts through volunteerism, corporate social responsibility initiatives and social enterprises.
Here are some intangible gifts we should never forget to share with others:

Gratitude

Always be grateful for what we have and be appreciative. Stop focusing on things we don’t have.

Ideas

The gift of ideas on how to reach out and build the community. For example, the Human Library initiative to create awareness of social issues from a first-person perspective.

Forgiveness

This may be a tough thing to do, but in order to live a life of abundance, we need to learn to let go the past, and forgive ourselves and others.

Time

Sometimes, all we need to do is to spend time with people, listening and talking to them, to touch their hearts and make them feel important and respected.

Service

Be ready to avail ourselves to serve others in humility and generosity.

So, go on and be a selfless giver and make a difference!

“You give but little when you give of your possessions. It is when you give of yourself that you truly give.” – Kahlil Gibran

 Before you go, check out this video on bringing the message of hope to the people in Malaysia! We hope it inspires you and encourages you to have hope this season.

Want to give back to community? You can extend a hand to support the community around you. Click here to support the good work we do in communities, schools, and more. You can make a difference!

Published in English daily The Star, Malaysia, 20 December 2014