"見よ 私は講義や少しの施しを与えるのではない 私が与えるとき私は自分自身を与える"

This quote really gets to the heart of giving and generosity. The main idea here is that true giving isn’t just about offering lectures or small acts of charity. It’s about giving a piece of oneself — investing in others with real commitment and personal involvement. When you give in this way, you’re not just throwing money or advice at a problem; you’re dedicating your time, energy, and genuine care.

Historically, this perspective has deep roots. Think about it: when you look back at transformative moments or influential figures, it’s not the ones who just spoke at you or handed out temporary fixes that we remember. It’s the ones who rolled up their sleeves and got involved. This kind of giving isn’t about quick fixes but about long-term, heartfelt efforts.

Take, for example, the story of a teacher who stays after class to help a struggling student. Mrs. Johnson, let’s call her. She notices one of her students, Emily, having a hard time with math. Sure, Mrs. Johnson could just recommend a tutor or give Emily extra worksheets. But instead, she stays after school every day to work with Emily. She learns about Emily’s interests, her fears, and what’s going on at home. They laugh together, sometimes cry, and over time, Emily starts to improve. But more than that, she gains confidence and feels truly seen and valued. Mrs. Johnson didn’t just teach math; she gave a part of herself. She invested time, energy, and genuine care. That’s the kind of giving we’re talking about.

Now, how does one apply this kind of wisdom in daily life? Start small. Think about your interactions and where you can go beyond the surface level. If a friend is going through a tough time, don’t just send a “thinking of you” text. Call them, spend time with them, really listen. If you’re volunteering, don’t just show up and do the bare minimum. Engage with the cause, understand the people you’re helping, and let them know you’re truly there for them.

Imagine a scenario: your colleague, Jamie, seems overwhelmed with a project. It’s easy to say, “Let me know if you need help.” But what if you took it a step further? You sit down with Jamie, understand the challenges they’re facing, and work together to find solutions. Maybe you stay late a couple of nights to help meet the deadline. Maybe you share some of your strategies and tools. This isn’t just about getting the project done; it’s about showing Jamie that you’re invested in their success and well-being. You’re not just giving advice or a bit of your time; you’re giving a part of yourself.

Think about it like this: when you give yourself, you’re creating a connection. It’s not just about the act of giving but about the relationship that forms. It’s about making someone feel valued and supported in a way that goes beyond the superficial. So next time you think about giving, whether it’s your time, your resources, or your support, remember it’s not just about the act itself. It’s about the piece of you that you’re sharing and the impact that can have on someone else’s life.