The Joy of Giving

Dr. Rajesh Bhola
India
Jan 11, 2013
 
I receive many calls daily, from people across all segments of society, wishing to donate– to contribute . Some come to donate clothes, others donate food, wheel chairs, CP chairs, and accessories for the disabled children. Some young persons come and celebrate the birthdays of their children or their parents with the homeless and disabled children.A few young couples have been coming to us for the last many years, to deposit advance cheques (for the next quarter) for the conveyance expenses of some very poor, disabled children. All of these kind folk are volunteers, who think beyond themselves, and treat all human beings as part of one family. They have one thing in common – they experience a sense of euphoria from helping others. It can also be described as a sense of vitality, a warm glow. It has been compared to a runner’s high, and may be attributed to a release of endorphins; it is also talked about as a 'helper’s high'.

Various studies have found that donors and volunteers gain the most from a charitable encounter. The person providing the philanthropy  clearly takes away something from the experience; there actually may be measurable emotional advantages to being charitable. Helping others not only makes a person feel good, but it may also increase one’s physical and emotional well-being. Volunteering increases one’s energy, sense of mastery over life and self-esteem. It also promotes positive feelings, which may strengthen and enhance the immune system. It is great to give gifts, and to be generous - even in tough financial times.  There are a number of health benefits that may result from being altruistic: an activation of emotions lowers stress levels, and provides longer periods of calm. True giving comes from the same place inside you as your deepest happiness.

Many wonder what exactly they should give. Everybody has something of value for another person. It could be a kind word, a simple smile, some appreciation, the sharing of some special knowledge, even a helping hand – or a bit of support during a difficult emotional time. Yes. you have something to give everyone. The act of true giving is wonderful and amazing.There may be only a limited amount of material things you can give away, but fortunately generosity and kindness have no limitations. One of life’s most basic laws is that acts of love, kindness and generosity multiply and return to you many times over. The more you give the happier you will feel.

So, if you want to experience more joy, give joy to others; if you want more love, learn to give love; if you want attention and appreciation, learn to appreciate others. These are some of life’s most precious gifts, and they do not cost you anything. When you meet someone, you can silently send them a blessing, wishing them happiness, joy and laughter. This kind of silent giving is very powerful. Do this and you will suddenly find people around you opening to you in joy and happiness. As long as you are giving, you will also be receiving. Giving becomes a blessing for the giver.  Giving creates a pattern of happiness, joy and love in your life. Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love.

People who regularly donate not only reflect an aura of joy and contentment, but also narrate to me incidents of nature’s charisma and benevolence in their lives. They attribute their good luck to their acts of charity. Some families have evolved a system of regular sharing as part of their family culture. In a particular case, all the family members, across generations, visit us and share their resources and their valuable time; the youngest child, who is only eight, shares his chocolates, crayons and colours, whereas his grandfather takes care of the cost of all the medicines we distribute during the month. This family provides great inspiration to me; their thoughtfulness and feelings for others really stir my soul. 

It is human nature to believe that, “when I have more I’ll give more.” If you have this mentality you will never have enough of anything to give. Generosity comes from believing you always have enough to share. Challenge yourself to give love to those who get the least. Make your love unconditional. Make the world a more loving place. Everyone will reap the benefits. 

The Hindu religion has an equivalent term, ‘daan’, for philanthropy. The Gita dwells on the ethical and moral imperatives of practicing philanthropy: ‘atavyamiti yaddaram diyate anupakarine’ (the meaning of giving is that which is given without any expectations of return and without any strings attached). In the act of giving, when simply performed from the core of the heart, the spiritual path is enacted. Kabir, one of the great mystics, guides human beings thus: “You came into this world with fists closed and you go away with open palms (so during your lifetime keep your hands open and give liberally)” –   'mutthi bandhe aaye jagat mein haath pasare jaoge bhai'. 

Dr. Rajesh Bhola is President of Spastic Society of Gurgaon and is working for the cause of children with autism, cerebral palsy, mental retardation and multiple disabilities for more than 20 years.

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