My 29 Days of Giving June 13- July 11, 2010

[Bess]

I started out believing this exercise would be very difficult for me since I work at home and
have little opportunity to interact with others face to face during my work
week. I learned that there are many ways I give without seeing or touching
anyone!

What I learned is that I am a giver. I give constantly and automatically think of the needs of
others. My giving is a habit that sometimes feels like obligation, a burden. By
just being aware of my gifts I became more intentional and in doing so, my
intention took away the feeling of burden and released a feeling of joy within.

I re-learned that a gift does not require a thank you. Giving without expectation of
return is powerful and defines a true gift.

Although this may sound strange, I also learned to not give!

A gift given out of pure obligation is not a gift at all but a payment with expectation of some type of return or a self sacrifice that only causes resentment. If I am sacrificing or obligating myself from a feeling of guilt instead of good intention, the recipient is probably better off without.

In the case of life’s imposed obligations- caring for family, pets etc, it is important to reflectively pause and simply, choose to give; choose to love. If unable to do so, over time other arrangements should be made. Making other arrangements for imposed burdens can free one up to enjoy authentic relationships and is also a gift of good intention.

Blessings to all those who are walking this road with me!

[Deb~ Community Manager]

Love you too Bess~ You are fabulous!

[Bess]

Thanks to all for your support and comments! Love you!

[Janet]

I loved reading and reflecting on this blog post Bess! Thank you!

[Kelly]

Well put! I have found myself thinking the same thing.

[Jill Hatch]

Sucn a great blog--you pack a lot of wisdom into a few words, I'm hanging on to this one!

[Mare]

I love you honesty Bess. Thanks for a beautiful blog. xoxo

[Deb~ Community Manager]

Fabulous post! Thanks for being by my side on this journey!

[Lois55 wwt]

What you say is very insightful and i am in agreement. Bless you and take care....