It's Better To Give than To ReceiveSeptember 30, 2015

It's better to give than to receive. You heard this expression before, and you'll hear more of it soon. Give Now Week, which will be held from November 29 to December 5, encourages donations to local communities. It's not difficult to search and reach out to those who need our help. We tend to take it for granted.

The week-long campaign falls before the Christmas Season, which is the season of giving. Some don't ponder it. Not that there's a need, but consider the local community. How will they react to it? Will they be appreciate about it? Let's look at the bigger picture. Why give? Here are a few things to think about:

You're part of the tribe. Whether you like it or not, you belong to the community. You don't have to be reminded now and then, and minding your own business is not the right thing to do. You can make a difference, and volunteering may be the least thing you can do. You'll discover everyone has a part in it. And you don't have to be too skeptical about the government. (Let's assume you are too suspicious about politicians and their motives.) If you're still in doubt, then give it a try. Keep an open mind and heart. Forget about yourself for a day (at least).

You need to meet other people. Nothing will replace your family, but you can't expect them to be there all the time. And there's strength in numbers. It's not about lifelong friends, but you'll never know. You're not looking for love, but there are surprises along the way. You only want to do something, perhaps meaningful. And it can happen. At the end of the day, you'll figure out a few things. It's important to be with people whom you share the same ideas (or passion). Socialisation can be a good thing. (Even the solitary wolves will admit it.) Doing something together is better than doing it alone. No if or but about it.

You'll learn to lead. You read about leadership, and certain personalities are born to head a group. There's truth to it. However, anyone can be the captain of his/her own ship. It's not a daunting idea, if you have the knowledge and skills. And you don't need to be despondent if there are helping hands. You'll learn these, and much more, while taking part in an activity to help the local community. But you don't need to be conscious about it. This will happen sooner or later. Giving (or volunteering) is the foundation. If you haven't comprehend it, then don't worry about it.

Any great idea? Share it with us. Suggestions? We're all ears. Don't forget to send your donation.

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