The Art of Giving
The Art of Giving
leave spaces better than we find them
From a young age, my mother constantly reminded us to never show up to someone’s home empty-handed. I wondered what was so profound about bringing fruits or small plants to someone’s home. Quite frankly, I sometimes found it a little odd. Aren’t we just having a casual hangout? It’s not a birthday party or Christmas?
Despite the (what seemed to be random) gifts we would bring to the homes of our family and friends, seeing the smiles on their faces was always heart-warming. Now that I’m older, I understand that those small offerings were never about the grandiosity but rather the intention. It was an expression of love and a way to leave spaces better than we found them.
We are conditioned to consume, consume, consume
In today’s hyper-consumerist society, we are taught (without even realizing it) to want more and to be in a constant state of receiving. Take a second to reflect on how often as kids we were asked how many gifts we received on our birthdays— perpetuating the notion that the more we have, the more content we will be.
A shift in perspective can bring about a change in our approach to fulfillment. Instead of focusing solely on what we can receive, we might find greater satisfaction considering ways we can give or pivot our energy towards creating.
Seva rooted in love
Aligned with the idea of giving and creating, Seva, or selfless service is a fundamental principle in Sikh philosophy. At its core, Seva is deeply rooted in love, emphasizing the connection between service and care for others without harboring any expectations of personal gain. Prosperity can be gained through being on the side of the receiver, true. But true prosperity unfolds through generosity; dedicating time and resources to others, embracing the spirit of sharing.
Practicing Seva encourages us to extend our hands in service to others. By engaging in acts of compassion and service, we not only contribute to the well-being of our communities but also experience a sense of fulfillment transcending egotistical desires—cultivating virtues such as humility, gratitude, and inner peace. Every act of Seva becomes an expression of love—a love that fosters interconnectedness.
A paradigm shift
In a world that urges us to consume relentlessly, this shift towards intentional giving and service encourages us to embody a different kind of joy. This shift is an empowering choice— a conscious decision to prioritize contribution over consumption, to view interactions as opportunities to leave spaces better than we found them.
It’s my belief that we become architects of a more compassionate and interconnected world through the art of giving. What kind of gifts can you share with the world? Explore simple ways you can leave love in spaces, and you will find abundance beyond measure.