I have always enjoyed giving things away.  Whether they be presents I bought, art I made or just things I never use, giving has always been more satisfying than receiving to me.  Because I have always had enough of what I needed in my life, I have been truly blessed. Therefore, I have been able to give out of my abundance.  And this makes me feel good.

Now, what if you do not have enough to give to others?  Many people are in this situation. And yet, I have witnessed people give from what little they have to others if they see that another person is also in need.  They share what they have because they are grateful even when they are in want. That is pure generosity and I have never been in that situation.

People who display this kind of giving, even when they themselves have very little, are truly the ones who know how to love.  Anyone can give out of their abundance. That is, if they choose to do so. And I am not saying that this kind of giving is wrong or that people can’t have a giving attitude in such circumstances.  I just think that it is noteworthy that some people are able to share in this way. It is truly a sign of brotherly love.

Another aspect of giving things away, is that whatever the motive, it always has the power to make one feel good.  Sharing is an act of gratitude. It brings to mind the book, written by Leo Buscaglia entitled The Way of the Bull.  In his travels through Asia, he meets many impoverished people and experiences this gracious attitude of them sharing what little they had, with him.  It touched him deeply to witness their giving, and the joyfulness they had in their lives. The images in this book have stayed with me even though I read it over 20 years ago.

Giving things away can make one feel rich.  It can be a way of decluttering our homes. It can be an expression of love for another person.  Giving can support charities, causes and places of worship. It can do tremendous good. Even if it means nothing to the giver, the receiver can benefit from such a gift.  And if a gift is given with love and in gratitude for having it to give, it becomes a symbol of living a good life.