Giving Doesn't Have to Be Big

Mother Teresa once said that we cannot do great things on this earth, only small things with great love. I believe that what gives most people a sense of accomplishment - as well as joy - is to give.

I'm thankful that my husband, no matter what he has earned, has always been a giver. Even when we had very little, my husband would often stop to help strangers, expecting nothing in return. If he didn't have money, which was often, he would change tires, move furniture, give someone a lift if their vehicle broke down, fix cars and computers, etc.

Giving doesn't have to be big because a little can go a long way and giving doesn't have to involve money.

Like so many others, I've long supported charities that I found commendable and I enjoy helping people; thanks to my friend, Rebecca, I've enjoyed assisting her with projects that are close to her heart. This year we were able to purchase items and donate them to a girl's home; whether the home is for girls or boys, these kids really need items that they can call their own. Putting together gift bags with a 5.00 gift certificate to McDonald's, shampoo, lip gloss and other "girly" items are a real treat for the girls who often come from foster homes, broken families, etc. Homes for boys can always use donations as well and the boys are just as deserving. Items like new sheets, towels, kitchen utensils, games, clothes and gift certificates are always appreciated.

My friend also found out about some Liberian refugees that live in our community and we were able to put together dinners for them and donate other staples like rice, beans, etc. Just asking around or contacting churches and other charities can often be a lead to people who need assistance of some kind.

I've been on the receiving end of charity myself, which is why I never feel superior. I am also very thankful for having been the recipient because not only is it humbling, it is also a blessing to see how kind and thoughtful people can be.

I recall a time when my husband and I were very young--just out of our teen years--and had a baby girl. My husband was deployed and the Army made an error and didn't pay us for an entire month; since we didn't own credit cards, I ran out of money for groceries. I made due with what I had but one morning I walked outside to find a bag of groceries on my doorstep. I had no idea who had put them there. Months later I found out that a neighbor had. This was a woman I was friendly with and had spoken to briefly. I had not asked for charity but received it anyway, and I must say, it was treasured.

That's why I feel people should just give because it's not easy to reach out and ask for help. People don't want to be burdens; they don't want to intrude on other people's time and they don't want to feel like failures. If you even think someone is in need, don't wait for them to ask because, most likely, they won't. Just do what you can.

Those pleasing to God are compared to sheep. They are pleasing because they were willing to share with those who were in need. Jesus said they had given food to him when he was hungry, a drink when he was thirsty, and clothing to him when he needed it. They had visited him when he was sick and in prison.
The people didn't remember doing these things for Jesus, but he replied, "Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me."
- Matthew 25:31-46

Do not stand on a high pedestal and take 5 cents in your hand and say, "here, my poor man", but be grateful that the poor man is there, so by making a gift to him you are able to help yourself.It is not the reciever that is blessed, but it is the giver.Be thankful that you are allowed to exercise your power of benevolence and mercy in the world, and thus become pure and perfect."
- Swami Vivekananda