The Absolute Joy of Giving

(This article was first published in November 2007 Metta Center email newsletter.)

Yesterday, I was sitting outside in my garden. I closed my eyes for a moment, enjoying the sun and feeling the gentle wind on my face. I heard the hummingbird calls and the songs of robins. The air was perfumed with the late-blooming roses.

I decided to open my eyes, and invited my Inner Being to see the world with me.

I noticed that sun felt warmer. There was joy reflected on the leaves as the sunrays bounced off them. The air smelled so sweet. I felt so alive!

My heart was filled with warm, glowing feelings of joy and I loved it! I felt like jumping up and down like a kid for the sheer joy of being in love with life itself.

Then I heard, "It is from this place of abundance that you can truly give what you have."

I was reminded that joyful giving comes from a place of fullness, not lack. From a place filled with love, not fear. From a place of ease, not striving. From non-attachment, not from having expectations of getting something back in return. It is from these places of abundant well-being that inspired-giving fulfills both the giver and the receiver, and uplifts everyone involved.

How do you get to this feeling of joyful abundance? Appreciation of what is wonderful and beautiful both in you and outside of you is a powerful way to connect to this feeling. Make it a habit to bless all that you love in life. Spend time recognizing the abundance, peace and ease that you do have. Take time out for yourself to play. Be proud of yourself and honor your journey. Be gentle with yourself and others when you made mistakes. Practice finding goodness even in the most unlikely people, events or places.

May you have the opportunity to experience the joys of giving from your place of abundance.

Wishing you a soulful autumn and a wonderful Thanksgiving!

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