It is, I suppose, am oversimplification to answer this topic with "it just is". That also doesn't give a good explanation, but when I think about giving, I remember how much has been given freely to me. And, I know how much that has meant to me and how much it has shaped my life. Therefore, I can say with complete confidence that it is better to give than receive.

I don't have concrete data to "prove" that it is better. The word "better" is subjective. We live in a selfish society where people trample others in order to meet their personal needs and "get what is theirs". With that in mind, I could easily make an argument that getting all I can is better than giving away. Some people live with that philosophy. They figure that everyone has an equal chance to work for things. Therefore, they should not give to other people. They should earn it themselves. I disagree with that philosophy because there is something more than just me in life.

Some people cannot do certain things. Others have shortcomings that are beyond their control. I donate platelets as often as I can. Platelets are a component of the blood, and some people do not produce them naturally. Therefore, they need transfusions on a regular basis. I give because someone else cannot do it himself or herself. I give because I have a surplus, and someone else has a shortfall. If you take apart the philosophy, someone might argue that I get satisfaction from giving, which means that I am receiving something as well. I suppose there is some truth to that, but it doesn't change the fact that I do not have to give something away. I could just keep it for myself. But, I give because for me it is the "right" thing to do, and I do it because I believe I am called to help others.

Giving is a voluntary exercise. I suppose someone could compel you to give something, but much of giving is about attitude. It isn't just the act, but the spirit of generosity that makes it a meaningful activity. So give generously, and don't worry about your reward. Someday, someone may give back to you when you least expect it.

Learn more about this author, Todd Pheifer.
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