Giving to others can bring us much joy and happiness if we do so with no expectations of receiving anything in return.
A few weeks ago, I was in the market when an older gentleman approached me. I had walked past him earlier in another aisle. As he approached, he touched my arm and told me I had a beautiful smile. He didn’t stop there; he continued to tell me how my smile had brightened his day and that he was going to carry my smile with him.
My heart got all warm and fuzzy. I introduced myself, and he did the same. We wished each other a good day and went about our business.
As we pass people each day, we are unaware of what is going on in their life. We don’t even think that a small gesture could positively affect someone else, because we are wrapped up in our own lives. Each one of us has the capability of turning a bad day into a good day for someone.
The day you find out who you are is when you look back and realize that it was never the words, rather your actions that defined you.” ― Shannon L. Alder
Your mindfulness challenge for the week is this:
To give to a random stranger without expecting anything return.
I once read about a man who always looked for pennies on the ground. Each time he found one, he would pick them up and hand them to the very next person he saw. How beautiful is that?
Here are some ideas: A compliment, flower, huge tip, favor, your time, a smile, or even a penny. You can use one of these or come up with something completely original. Your choice.
As you give, notice how it makes you feel to do this. Where in your body do you feel the best? Does any part of you feel bad when you give to others? Write down any feelings that stand out to you. Think about those feelings and what they must mean.
Don’t worry about how the other person responds. Some will be thankful you did something so kind. Others may be shocked and think that you want something in return. Their action is not your concern.
You stay focused on your thoughts and emotions. I promise you that it will lift your spirits.
Do this once a day for the next seven days.
I would love to hear any experiences that anyone had with this challenge.
If you would like to read more on what giving to others can do to help ourselves, read the book about the founder of Hobby Lobby, David Green: Giving It All Away and Getting It All Back Again: The Way of Living Generously
If you have not already signed up for our weekly mindfulness challenge but would like to, please do so here. I would love you to be a part of this mindful tribe!
Peace & Love,
Ela
Leave a Reply
Your email is safe with us.