Message # 84 Are You a Giver, or a Taker?

Message # 81 was dedicated to my youngest Zen master, Sela Horowitz (1 year 2 months old). Today’s message is especially dedicated to my grandmother, the amazing Buddhist, Fung Shee Pan (101 years old).

As a Buddhist, I feel that we are all the same and we need to help each other. So, my question to you, is, are you a giver or are you a taker?

We live in a society of me, me, me, when it should actually be we, we, we. We look for money, fame, big homes, nice cars, and flat screen TVs. When we are looking to these materialistic things to fulfill our happiness, we are often only temporarily gratified. True happiness comes from helping others.

There have been studies that show that when a teenager volunteers, they reap the health benefits for up to 60 years. They are healthier, have less stress, and are truly, happier.

To every one’s defense, life moves pretty fast, and it’s easy to focus on ourselves. But try helping others, whether it’s a compliment or going to a third world country and volunteering. It doesn’t matter if it’s major or minor, you won’t regret it. Think of this as doing your part to help change the world.

So take less and give more. It’s not what you intend to get. It’s all about what you intend to give.

“What you give, you keep. What you fail to give, you lose forever.”

Homework: Give a little today.