giving need
January 31, 2014 § 12 Comments
Today I want to share an unfinished wondering that has taken up space in my thoughts:
Perhaps, in our most challenging moments, we must first give others what we most need for ourselves.
This week I endeavored to demonstrate small acts of kindness at a time when I felt most vulnerable, setting aside my worries to embrace a different perspective; changing the direction of my thoughts and momentum of my emotions. In looking to give what I needed, I found a wealth of resources within. The smile I thought I had misplaced, the extra minutes I couldn’t seem to spare, the patience I wasn’t gifting myself were ever-present.
So, in the interest of honoring this space of personal reflection, I am pausing here in word to dwell in a question of need.
scribblechic 
Well said. I found myself in this place earlier and it was nothing short of liberating!
Liberating, indeed. Thanks!
Yes. I found quiet joy on Xmas Eve through giving what I wasn’t sure I had:). So true.
Oh, Kay, I think remember this post! The luminaries? The realization that giving what I most need is in itself a gift was such an intimate awakening, I didn’t register this memory. Perhaps we must each come into universal truths from different paths.
I’ve tried this, with imperfect results. I think it requires a fully giving heart and not just a resentful grudging gift. I tried one version … it didn’t work. On to the other!
Good luck. I give you credit for your effort, gritted teeth and all!
I like your post and David’s insight. I think it is an “all in” type thing or there will be lingering thoughts of jealousy or doubt. To accomplish this in my life, I’d need to close my eyes and just jump in that cold swimming pool–and then once I am in, the kids follow.
Enjoy your weekend.
You’re right, of course, we have to give completely, without expectation of reciprocation or an accounting of debt. Fortunately I didn’t have to contend with jealousy or cold water. Thanks for the smile!
Oh my, how I love this. I’ve experienced this revelation in retrospect but I don’t think I’ve ever intentionally set out to realign my perspective to one of giving in the midst of needing. And yet, it makes sense in a way that by giving of ourselves we can find peace amid worry.
I found there was less room in my thoughts for worries and fears when my head and heart were so happily occupied by kindness. I am an imperfect being, so I expect this lesson will reappear in my life at another time, but at present it has been a great source of comfort.
Life is full of these snowball effects, and it can work both ways. When mutual resentment is building, someone has to step outside of the conflict and try to reverse the process, and get things building in a positive direction. This is an important idea, Marie, and one that I needed to hear right now. Thank you.
Resentment is a cantankerous companion best endured with a deaf ear. I struggle with this too, Charles.