Give a Little Bit (and then a little bit more)

The final section of Francis' prayer made up of three axioms (all of which contain spiritual paradox) beginning with:

"For it is in giving that we receive"

This of course flies in the face of conventional "wisdom;" particularly that which is influenced by fear and scarcity consciousness. This mindset would reinforce, that there in fact is not enough to go around; it promotes a competitive, & win/lose attitude. The concern is that there won't be enough for "me," or "mine."

We live in an abundant universe, there is ample to supply everyone's needs - it really boils down to distribution and of course, is influenced by greed and lust for power.

Another consideration, is the influence of the material world, consumer-based economy, that we live in here in the western world. Dictates from this worldview, suggest that you couldn't possibly "gain," from giving something away.

The spiritual (inner rewards) of giving of yourself, are not necessarily quantifiable the same way material or financial wealth is. But they are most certainly tangible; albeit discernible, only to the individual concerned. Giving is free of "hooks," hidden agendas; want or need for reciprocation or accolades. It might even be done quietly, unwitnessed and without fanfare. The joy of giving is vast, the rewards plentiful. Though that has nothing to do with the soul motivation. Far better to give with an open heart; for the pure joy of doing so, and with the vision of making life pleasurable, for someone else.

You can give of your time, lending a hand or even an ear. Sharing your expertise, bring the gifts of your talents into service. There are few things that bring about a more complete sense of contentment; than the feeling of making a contribution, to have been of service, to something greater than yourself.

Whatever it is you've done - you have given something back, rather than take, take, take.  It is quite possible to have vast material accumulation and yet feel entirely empty. Equally true, there are those that might appear to have very little, and yet, they are prosperous in ways, that many people wouldn't even understand.

More of the power and magic of paradox.

R. O'Neill (July 21, 2018)