Why be a giver
March 4, 2008
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Todd writes about the ways in which we can become a giver today. He urges that we not postpone giving until some time in the future, but start today.
I like the story that starts off his blog. It is slightly disturbing for sure, yet effective.
A few weeks ago I was eating lunch at one of my favorite restaurants in downtown Manhattan. Seated next to me were two very well-dressed men in their late 50’s/early 60’s who were having a conversation about their recent retirements. Given that seating in New York restaurants is ridiculously tight and I was dining alone, I heard most of their talk.
One of them asked the other “so what are you going to do now”? The other sat for a moment contemplating, then looked up and said questioningly: “Give back”? They both hooted in laughter at the response, and began perfunctorily yapping about the stock market, recent travels, and other typical conversation.
It is a good story because you can picture the cynicism that drips from the two men. Hear them belly laugh. “Why would anyone want to give back?”
I agree with Todd, we need to give now, but I would like to make it more clear, why. We need to give because that is what gives our lives meaning. In the end, when you look back on your life, you will think about what you gave, not what you received. What you give is what makes you worthy. What you receive in the end doesn’t matter, unless you are a cynic. But if you are, then nothing matters. That is the definition of a cynic, right?
It is not about giving back. Give the first part of your richness. I believe in tithing. Tithing requires that you give the first portion of your income. When you make your monthly budget, take the first ten percent, and give that away for the good something or someone you know is a blessing to this world. Then make up the rest of your budget. I am convinced that your life will be richer, much richer, because of this practice.
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