Pure Wisdom

CHAPTER 29

Give

For some, the word ‘give’ means sacrifice. But there’s a big difference between giving and sacrifice. Giving is based on a genuine desire to help others. Sacrifice stems from the myth that in order to provide others with something you have to deprive yourself of it first. The ‘provide and deprive’ myth runs deep. But giving is for your benefit. It’s for your fulfilment. ‘Isn’t that selfish?’ you may ask. Yes, it is. But on a deeper level, you serve your self-interest by helping others. Let me explain.

Giving is healthy. Nature is constantly giving up stuff and renewing itself: a tree sheds its leaves; your body sheds its skin; the sun releases its heat. You see, if things multiply in nature without dying and renewing then ...