Pay It Forward
“I am convinced that success is not measured by what you get out of life, but by what you give back. ” – Jerry Moran
I think Jerry hit the nail right on the head. So many people’s only concern is what they can get out of life. Everything is focused on getting something from someone.
The average employee switches jobs every 5 years. Usually looking for a better paycheck or promotion.
I have seen many “relationships” based on what can the other person do for me.
It seems society thinks that is the normal way to do things. I disagree. People should be more focused on helping others than themselves.
I have noticed that when we help others we get much more than what we gave in return. You just have to open your eyes/mind to see the benefits. For example, if you give money to a charity, you may not get financial benefits back, but you’ll be suprised at what does come your way. It can be a thank you card to brighten your day. A recognition somewhere. The joy of seeing others benefit from your giving. Those things are worth much more than what you gave.
The New Horizon’s Womens Shelter in La Crosse recently had a fundraiser. The county no longer gives them any aid and they must raise everything they need from donations. They held a silent auction and raised over $3500 with pledges exceeding $4000! That is amazing!
Check out the website for the event here.
I was fortunate enough to be able to donate some free months of bootcamps for the silent auction. That’s not to brag or anything. The point I am making is I received much more than what I donated in return. I met some really interesting people. I had a great afternoon at the silent auction. I was able to make a difference for the shelter.
You don’t have to give a lot. Start with something small. It will snowball from there.
If you don’t think you have something worthwhile to give or don’t have enough to give, do it anyways. I have found when give a little we realize how much we actually have. Our mindset changes from giving out of our lack to realizing we are giving out of our abundance.
You just have to see where you have abundance. Either in material goods or talents.
Let your neighbor have that tool you never use, but he always borrows. Same could go for some clothes or toys. Cook a meal or bake some goodies for a shut in or someone struggling to put food on the table. Spend time with someone who might not have anyone else.
You will be surprised at what benefits might come your way.
So how are you paying it forward?
