Give More Than You Take

This is a theme that has permeated organized cultures, specifically, their religions for thousands of years. But, what does it really mean? I have always associated this with being generous and sharing what I have. However, recently, I have begun to question, if that is enough.

I have watched my parents, friends and neighbors give to those seemingly, less well-off. I have tried to emulate them in being generous with the money that I have and I am always trying to share, if I see a need. But once again, is that enough?

Does this theme apply to: helping someone in need, AFTER you are satisfied or before? Does giving only include monetary sharing or does it include sharing of self, too? What about attention seekers (I’m not talking about children here)? Does taking more attention from others for yourself, fit into this category? The Hindus have a saying about this topic. It is:

"Every selfless act...is born from Brahman, the eternal, infinite Godhead. He is present in every act of service."
- Bhagavad Gita 3:15


So, on that note, the quote of the day is:

“Every act of selfless goodness brings us closer to God.” tc

Water Safety

The other day, I witnessed a very scary scene, a scene that unfortunately, happens frequently in the summertime on lakes, rivers and other bodies of water. A man had not properly secured his boat on the shoreline. Unexpectedly, a wind-storm blew in from the west. The intense wind caused the mooring of the boat to break and it started floating out to the middle of the lake. The man, thinking of his boat and not of his own well-being, jumped into the 40 degree water in order to retrieve his possession. It only took a few minutes in that water temperature for hypothermia to set in. As the boat drifted further out, the man found himself in trouble.


Luckily, there was one other boat on the shore and he was rescued from the cold waters. He was saved. I mention this because we are approaching the summer season, which is usually full of many weekend water activities. I hope that this message of a ‘close call’ reminds all of us that our possessions can always be replaced but our life balances within each moment.

So, on that note, the quote of the day is:

“Be careful where you place your value. Nothing and no one is worth losing your life over.” tc