Get Started
Home Authors Tags

"لا شيء مما لم تعطه سيظل لك حقًا."

C. S. Lewis
C. S. Lewis Author
Translations
🇺🇸 English 🇨🇳 中文 🇪🇸 Español 🇪🇬 العربية 🇫🇷 Français 🇮🇷 فارسی 🇯🇵 日本語
Quote meaning
This quote is all about the paradox of generosity. It suggests that the act of giving is what truly allows us to possess something, not in a material sense, but in a meaningful, personal way. When we share what we have, we create connections and enrich our lives in ways that holding onto things for ourselves simply can't match.

Think about it: when you give a gift to someone, you're not just handing over an object. You're sharing a part of yourself, your thoughtfulness, your care. This act of giving creates a bond, a memory that stays with you. It's this experience, this emotional connection, that you truly 'own.' The gift becomes a symbol of your relationship and the joy you brought to someone else's life.

Historically, this idea has roots in various philosophies and religions. For instance, in many spiritual traditions, like Buddhism and Christianity, the act of giving is seen as a path to true happiness and fulfillment. It's believed that through generosity, we transcend our own needs and connect with a larger, more enduring reality.

Let's ground this idea with a real-life example. Imagine a community garden. Everyone in the neighborhood contributes by planting seeds, watering the plants, and tending to the garden. When the veggies and fruits are ready to harvest, they don't just keep their share. They distribute the produce among each other, share recipes, and have communal meals. The garden isn't just a plot of land with plants; it's a thriving community hub. The people involved don't just own individual pieces of land—they share a collective sense of pride, joy, and cooperation. The garden's true value lies in the shared effort and the relationships it nurtures.

So, how do you apply this wisdom? Start small. Give a little more of yourself—your time, your attention, your kindness. Volunteer at a local charity, lend a hand to a friend in need, or simply listen when someone wants to talk. You'll find that these acts of generosity don't deplete you. Instead, they fill your life with richer experiences and deeper connections.

Imagine you're at a coffee shop. You see a regular customer who always seems a bit down. One day, you decide to buy their coffee and strike up a conversation. You learn a bit about their life, share a laugh, and brighten their day. Guess what? You've just given away a bit of your time and money, but the warmth and connection you've gained in return? That stays with you. You don't just own the memory of that interaction; you own the joy and goodwill it created.

In the end, the things we give away—love, kindness, time—are the things we truly keep. They shape our experiences and define who we are. So, next time you think about holding onto something tightly, consider the possibility that by letting it go, you might just gain something far more valuable.
Related tags
Altruism Contentment Generosity Giving Gratitude Life lesson Philosophy Possessions Selflessness Wisdom
MORE QUOTES BY C. S. Lewis
FEATURED QUOTES
Surprise me with another quote
Instagram Icon Facebook Icon X Icon Threads Icon