Of Giving Back, Of Sharing, And The Joy It Brings

If you’re a frequent reader of this blog, you probably have gauged that I’m a guy who likes to do social and humanitarian endeavors – doing charity works, social awareness initiatives, molding young kids by teaching them and the likes. It can be creating an idea and acting upon it. It's always a joy to see myself working for the good of other people by sharing my time, talent, and treasure - up to what it can allow me to do. 

A quote from Erich From is so fitting in this post.

Giving is the highest expression of potency. In the very act of giving, I experience my strength, my wealth, my power. This experience of heightened vitality and potency fills me with joy. I experience myself as overflowing, spending, alive, hence as joyous. Giving is more joyous than receiving, not because it is a deprivation, but because in the act of giving lies the expression of my aliveness.” ~ Erich Fromm

Awhile ago, I had the luxury of time watching some YT stuffs about sharing and giving back. People doing random act of kindness - impromptu actions to the point that almost all of the people they intend to help are really in awe of their kindness. And that in return, those people being helped expressed their sincere thanks and utter a word of blessing to the benefactor. 

The Shopping Trip

“Every action in our lives touches on some chord that will vibrate in eternity" 

- Edwin Hubbel Chupin.

"Jane, hurry and get your coat. We’re going to the store.”

I ran to do as my father instructed. A shopping trip with Dad was a rare treat. He traveled a great deal of the time, and I cherished the unexpected opportunity to be alone with him.

Once in the car, I asked, "Where are we going?"

Dad only smiled. "You'll see."

To my surprise, we didn't take the usual turn to the area's one department store. (This was in the pre-mall era). Instead, we turned down an ally where small row houses lined the road. Dad parked the car, got out, and walked to the front door of the first house on the street. Within a few minutes, he returned with Connor, a boy from our church.