The Art Of giving

About a year ago, I was gob-smacked at the spiritual lesson one of my friends taught me about giving to others.

A bit of history is needed before I proceed. I was evicted and lost my job (and everything I owned). I took pride in the things I had. My home and job defined me. It was the only way I knew how to live. That is, until it was all taken away. It was a precarious situation that humbled me. I barely had gas money, was severely depressed and suicidal. I was close to homelessness.

Fast forward to my story and my point. I had just finished my zumba class. A friend invited me to Chik-Fil-A for lunch. I gladly accepted because I needed to be with people, and laugh.

As we entered the restaurant, a young man approached us. My guard went up. Though it was early in the day, I was concerned that he would hurt both of us. That wasn’t the case. He was hungry and wanted something to eat. In a quiet tone, my friend took charge. She recognized that he was hungry. She took him to the counter and bought him lunch. When our orders were ready, she gave him his, and we took ours back to the car to eat.

I admit, I judged the man by the way he looked.
She saw him and the situation from another point of view - - one of spirit and giving. I don’t remember if we talked about it in depth. Frankly, I don’t think it was necessary. Her actions spoke LOUDLY about treating others with kindness and respect. While I was grateful at her treating me to lunch (and spending some time with me), I was PROFOUNDLY HUMBLED and GRATEFUL for what she taught me in the moment. The lessons I learned are SEARED in my brain and spirit. They will NEVER go away.

Now, if a down-trodden person approaches me and asks for change for food, I BOLDLY walk them to the counter and tell them to order anything they want. When I was hungry, depressed and (yes) suicidal, someone stepped into my life to show me compassion, kindness and respect. I believe that I can do the same for others. Thank you Boo (Melanie) for showing me GOD in you!

Focus: Kindness, Spirit, God, Friendship
Questions for you: 1) Do you take time for giving? 2) What life lessons has it taught you?