Giving

This word has provided me a lot to think about as of late. I have realized I cannot change myself to appease others. As much as I might think I can, I can't. Not going to happen. Their reactions may be different, but my intent remains the same. I fully believe that if I am to give, I give. Doesn't matter what... time, money, shoulder, smile, hug, silence... as long as I have it to give.

At many times in my life, I have been accused of trying to "buy" my friends. First of all, let me state this: I am not rich, nor do I plan to be rich in anything but love. For those who have thought that, not gotten to know me better, I am truly sorry, for you will never know the true meaning of my friendship. I love my friends. Almost as much as I love my family, and most of my close friends are like my family. For those friends, I would die for them, given the question. Do you have friends like that? That mean that much to you? Do you have a servant's heart?

God loves a cheerful giver. And just because you might not have any money doesn't mean you can't give... give your love, advice, arms, empathy or your silence. Silence speaks volumes at times. Some of the most heartfelt gifts I have ever received, didn't have a monetary value on them, yet I will treasure them as the priceless pieces of my life that only I have, with that friend, in my heart, forever.

So the next time someone does something nice for you, instead of having an immediate reaction of them having an ulterior motive, think about it, and take it for what it is. Have an open mind and open heart. God has a way of taking care of those who have other reasons they are being nice... It's not your job to deny someone the right to be a giver. :)

Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends. – John 15:13

Every man shall give as he is able,
according to the blessing of the LORD your God which He has given you.
– Deuteronomy 16:17

Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due,
when it is in your power to do it.
– Proverbs 3:27

…the righteous gives and does not hold back.
– Proverbs 21:26

Give to everyone who asks of you,
and whoever takes away what is yours, do not demand it back.
– Luke 6:30