Are You a Giver or a Taker in Life?

What defines a person isn’t what they possess it is what they have chosen to give away. Today we too often define ourselves by being able to control others and circumstances to such extent that we get what we want when we want it.  The real essence of a person’s worth isn’t what’s in the bank or driveway but what you have given to others. It’s not that this requires someone to have great means but more importantly to give of his or herself in caring and helping for another.

I will be the first to admit that working with youth and  adults that most live in the what’s in it for me mode! I have memories of my kids always getting into fights often over sharing their toys or today who gets the iPad or laptop. The truth of the matter is that our society is often ruled by consumerism. We are too easily influenced by the media and advertising into thinking that unless I have a certain item or look like that celeb or sports icon that my life has little or no value.

My hope is that the heroes of today won’t be the latest NFL star that get’s arrested or suspended or a rapper that beats his girlfriend but the Kayla Mullers of the world. I have always been taught most by what I call the quiet helper who is always around but never visible to others. This type of person doesn’t care about being seen or recognized but is the one who always cleans up the mess that is ignored and left for mom.

I’m around too many that struggle with finding self-worth and meaning in life. The assumption is if I had a new whatever that my life would be great. Yet, the reality is that things or even a promotion isn’t going to do it. What I’m discovering is that when I choose to become a helping hand, listening ear or a new friend my day improves and all of a sudden my outlook is changing. The opportunity is to consider redefining what’s really important in life.  If my assumption that what I see in the media is the essence of real life then I’m in trouble!

My mom was always someone that spoke her mind and was quick to tell me to stop pretending to be someone I’m not. She would also in the same breath tell me that it was important to dream and discover who God wanted me to become in life.  So my mom was the one that lived by it’s more blessed to give than to receive. She had keen vision to see the needs of those around her to go out of her way to help and make someone’s life truly better.

I do appreciate the quote on this post about the fact that takers may eat better but the givers sleep better at night. So consider becoming a giver that doesn’t keep a track of what others have done for you!