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Give More than You Have!

By Doug Nielsen

A friend of mine recently said, “Doug, have you noticed that affluence often brings along its best friend--selfishness?” 

That comment struck me and caused me to think deeply about it.  Actually, he has an interesting point.  Often we become so attached to making money, buying new things and accomplishing our dreams that we forget to share with others.

I recently witnessed a group of school children from Costa Rica exhibit quite the opposite behavior. 

We were wrapping up our adventure in Costa Rica.  It was the last day of school for our kids.  The school they attended barely had the basics.  The desks were rusted and many were broken.  The classrooms were so hot that you could ring the sweat out of your shirt.  The playground had one working swing. The one “recess” soccer ball was worn through to the bladder and was nearly flat. 

Most, if not all, of the children in the school were from very humble circumstances. Some even lived in run down huts that would be condemned here in the states.

The school kids planned a surprise party for my kids.  They donated money to buy soda and ice cream and even prepared a “going away dance.”  Each class took a picture, accompanied with a little gift, to present to each of my children.

This was very nice, but wait, the best is yet to come.

The real magic took place after the formal party was over.  The Costa Rican school kids hugged my kids and told them how sad school would be without them.  Then many of the students gave personal gifts as a reminder of their friendship.  These were not casual gifts, but gifts from the heart given with sacrifice.  One girl took off her only bracelet and gave it to my middle daughter.  A boy took off his big chain necklace, put it on my oldest boy and said, “This is so you will always remember the love of your Costa Rican family.”  Another boy took a new tractor he had recently received for his birthday out of his backpack and gave it to my youngest boy.  I could go on and on.

My kids were so BLOWN AWAY by the experience that they were overcome by emotion. Never in my life have I experienced such an event, nor have I witnessed my kids being so moved by the spirit of love and giving that each one was moved to tears.  In fact, my youngest boy (who is 100% boy through and through) was taken aside by his teacher so he could re-group as she wiped tears from his eyes.

These kids had nothing, but it did not stop them from giving more then they had!  They gave from the heart. 

The best leaders are givers!  The best parents are givers! The best neighbors are givers!

Our pain in life in large measure can result from our selfishness. 

It has been my experience that we all have more than enough love, service, and kindness to share at work, at home, in our neighborhoods, and communities. 

The BIGGEST problems I see as a therapist come into people’s lives the moment they start to DAM their LOVE and live selfishly!  Resolve today to let your love flow!

This Month’s Invitation

I invite you to not only give from the heart, but to live from the heart. Make it a habit everyday to GIVE more than you have to someone. Your gift need not be monetary and in most cases it won’t be.  The next meeting you go to, give a big smile and hand shake to everyone in the room or bring donuts for the group.  Do something. Go help that neighbor who needs help.  Call that friend who is struggling.  Spend one-on-one time with a neglected loved one.  DO IT! 

Track your progress daily on your calendar. Make GIVING a priority!

Until next time take life by the Helm and smooth sailing even in the storms!