What You Give Comes Back to You

Something I've tried to instill into my children is that there is more joy in giving than receiving. And I don't mean that in reference primarily to material things. It's been a tough lesson for them to grasp, as my suggestions in this area of life have often met with resistance.

I think when it comes to raising children, "We can do this the easy way, or the hard way."

The easy way would be if our children simply accepted our advice. The hard way is when they dismiss whatever wisdom we would like for them to absorb, simply because it came from a parent -- or most anyone in a position of authority. In choosing not to follow our advice, the hard way of learning is through personal life experience.

David visits with with his Aunt Kay

In my opinion, the greatest way to gain a sense of self-worth is to give of yourself to others.

Some examples might be:

• Volunteering at a soup kitchen or food bank
• Spending quality time with the elderly or sick
• Help a friend move or settle into a new apartment
• Offer to babysit to give tired parents a break
• Help a struggling student with homework
• Do yard work for a neighbor who is disabled
• Cook a meal for someone who has just returned home from the hospital

Sean holds his baby nephew

Providing service of this nature will naturally boost your own self-esteem, as you'll feel gratification in the realization that your efforts can make a positive difference in the lives of others.

~ Getting Back ~

Opportunities surround us. Thinking creatively can sometimes open the door to new friendships and make for positive networking -- which is likely to be beneficial in our own lives.

For instance, say you would like to work in a bicycle shop, but you don't have much experience in the mechanics of repairing bicycles. One solution might be to propose to the shop owner that you help out at the shop for free. Yes, you'll probably have to sweep floors, clean a bathroom, stock shelves, and move bikes around. But, you may also have the opportunity to assist the bicycle mechanic and possibly learn how to properly true wheels!

You never know, but the elderly woman you spent time reading to because she no longer has her sight -- she could have a relative who doesn't have much time to spend with her because that person is overwhelmed with raising kids and trying to get a new business up and running. There could be an opportunity for a job there.

You won't discover what opportunities are out there until you make the effort. Make it a point to give of yourself. Make a difference.