Today, I felt the need to write more about “The True Meaning of Giving” by answering some of the questions I have received about the general definition that people have of “giving.” I would like to shed light on the essence of giving from my point of view and point out that it is a much broader concept than many of us have limited it. I would also like to clear up some misconceptions about “giving” from the comments I have received.
Perhaps, the first two things that generally come to mind when we hear the word “give” is charity, that is, giving money or volunteering, that is, giving time and, although both areas are widely forms of donation. accepted in society, I mean both are still relatively a slice of a big pie called “giving.” It is also worth discussing here the greater impact created by the way of “giving” that we choose to be a part of. Although it is a very noble way to contribute or relieve our less fortunate brothers and sisters around the world, most charitable and volunteer efforts tend to have a short-term impact on recipients by providing basic necessities such as food, drink, shelter and clothing. In my opinion, this will not help the recipient individuals or communities maintain a long-term advantage, therefore it is hoped that the aid will come again and the question here is: “What value has this type of donation added to the world? up to now”?
At best, there will be schools, hospitals, or major investments made through humanitarian efforts to advance long-term social and economic values such as education or health. I particularly admire development projects or initiatives that are launched to empower individuals or communities to direct their lives by providing them with the right tools, and also teaching them how to use these tools to create a brighter future for themselves and their families. I commend programs that train and guide people on how to be productive members of society, how to get the proper education that enlightens their lives, and in turn can be a blessing to others once they are self-reliant. You can imagine the kind of world we will create if each of us contributes by “giving” a solution to the problems of others that can change their lives instead of simply “giving” them a meal or some money that can only last one day. so so. The beauty is in “giving” hope to people by altering the way they choose to live their life in a positive way. For me, this is the true meaning of giving. On this occasion, I cannot fail to mention the Chinese quote that says: “Give a man a fish and you will feed him for a day; teach him to fish and you will feed him for life.”
Also, one of the most common misconceptions about “giving” that I wanted to clear up here is that most people want to have the “holy” mentality when they think of “giving.” I heard a lot of comments around: “If there is a personal gain for me in doing this or that, how can that be related to giving?”, Which implies that “giving” must in all cases be one-sided or no return. ! I don’t even know where that distorted image of “giving” originated from. In life, balance is necessary to ensure coherence and continuity. One thing we must understand is that God has created this universe with abundance. There are enough things for everyone here and sharing will even create a large supply of supplies.
Research has shown that people strive for long-term reciprocity and that people who get some kind of material or emotional reward as a result of their contributions are more likely to give more; and this is also a basic human need. Therefore, depriving yourself to give to others will ensure that even if you give, you don’t give lovingly at the same time; your giving activities won’t last long because you can’t see the “What’s in it for me?” Mother Teresa said: “It is not about how much we give, but about how much love we put into giving.”
In the hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): “None of you truly believes until you love for your brother what you love for yourself”; It is a strong indication that this balance is a requirement of our human nature for healthy individuals and peaceful societies. You are an emotionally healthy person if you love the good things for yourself. As important; is that you must love your fellow men the same good that you choose for yourself. If either of the two conditions is missing; then you are not a true believer or an effective giver.
To conclude, “giving” is a very deep term, we cannot limit it to a few activities just because this is what we see most common around us. The essence of “giving” is in freeing people from their psychological chains or idols, altering their way of thinking by providing solutions, revealing new possibilities they have never heard of and empowering them to take charge of their lives again. I truly believe in taking personal time to share knowledge, empower and coach others to help them be successful spiritually, mentally, and physically. Once they are successful, they are ready to have a broader impact on other people’s lives by helping them succeed as well. Here I can proudly say that we have understood the true meaning of “giving”.