The art of giving : A pivot for fulfillment
knock knock knock!!!
I heard a sound on my door during one of those days I was caught up with fierce anxiety and depression 5 years ago in Delta state-Nigeria after a serious robbery by armed robbers.
Out of my dark lonely corner, I managed to reach the door.
I was tired and the last thing I expected was a visit from anyone. Well as courtesy demands, I unlocked the door also curious to know who is at the other end of the door.
It was two close folks from the community I was residing back then. I gauzed at their endearing smiles and responded to a warm “good morning”.
They asked if they could come in, ofcourse I wouldn’t refuse. The long story cut short, that visit was the stepping stone of my healing process.
These dear friends had a chat with me, they listened as I expressed myself and were never judgmental or criticizing because, back then, I was so harsh with almost everyone. I mean, the robbers collected almost all my valuables apart from my life.
After some lengthy words of encouragement, that touched really deep, they offered to give me a ride outside.
Together we went to some fun parks in town, had a good meal, listened to some great music. It was just what I needed to get my strength back. But trust me, the thoughts of losing my phone and laptop then wasn't funny 😃.
But talking about this friend's action towards me, I would convincingly term that act as selfless giving. The word giving often does not connotes mere exchange of material possessions as some might want to define it.
It is true that the world we live in today is characterized by hustle and bustle, everyone is busy fending for themselves and families, one barely have the time to look at the need of others let alone displaying the unique quality of giving.
Giving can create a network of positive connections weather small gesture or a substantial contribution.
Giving encompasses kindness, empathy and support.
It makes more sense to know that it has the power to create a ripple effect where one is moved to reciprocate similar gestures when another person is in need.
After careful study and examination, I came to realize that giving takes so many form, one of which highlight my life story at the beginning of this article.
Some various forms include:
Emotional giving: When someone is going through some very tough moments in life, the one offering support, empathy and even understanding is giving emotionally to such an individual.
Giving our time and skills to help is another form of giving.
Providing information to someone who really needs it as well as expertise and guidance so as to empower others is an act of giving. For example, I have some friends who do send me job opportunities always, some are not in this platform.
Infact, I have a friend here who does that anytime he sees a good opportunity for me. That's a good act of giving and I really appreciate.
Showing an unexpected gesture just to brighten someone’s day without any specific reason is an act of giving.
Offering companionship and attention to someone who needs it can be termed as gift of presence.
Material/financial giving: Providing physical items and money to help someone in need is also a good way to show concern and still an act of giving.
No matter what type of giving you choose to demonstrate, one goal remain, the main goal should be building a more compassionate and supportive community.
Impact of giving on mental health
There are no arguments that our mental health is improved through an act of giving. I am saying this from experience.
Giving comes with a sense of fulfillment, joy and satisfaction.
Researchers has it that, giving alleviate stress, anxiety and depression.
It creates a sense of belonging in others, there is a sense of unity and shared responsibilities.
I have experience this many times from some good friends here especially during my dark days some years back and even some months ago.
What is that little act of giving you are withholding from your next neighbor?
Do you have any resources to spare?
Can giving be part of you this year?
Can you touch more lives through your actof giving?
Your time, your resources, your energy can make someone genuinely smile today, use it. Yes we can!
[ All pictures are mine]
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Your in-depth post really got me thinking. One gives when the other person is capable of receiving as well. If I were to look back in my life, I could see a lot of giving that could not (metaphorically) reach its recipient. Strange. Perhaps this is why the role of community, the sense of community, is important. When people are part of a community, they know they need to help each other - emotionally, materially or through information. When you don't feel part of such a circle, you can't understand it.
So, you are lucky to have such friends who did this for you 5 years ago, as well as those who continue to do this support for you to this day.
Strange indeed...
Community was suppose to support. And one having that sense of belonging is an added advantage, because you feel appreciated.
You can say that again! I am always grateful to these ones. Much of my activities this year would be to support others. We are here for all of us.
TEAM 1
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