"Because it is in giving that we receive, in pardoning that we are pardoned." Saint Francis of Assisi
Warren Buffet donated $31 billion to charity. He lives in a modest three room house, drives his own car and carries no cellphone. Bill Gates donated $28 billion to charity. And, Andrew Carnegie, the steel tycoon, sold his business to do charity. He said: "The man who dies rich, dies disgraced." Mother Teresa dedicated her to the service of the poorest of the poor. Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison for a cause. And Jesus set the ultimate example in forgiveness, when he forgave his persecutors and tormentors from the cross. What do all these great people teach us? Living is in giving - not just in cash, but more importantly, giving ourselves through love.
How are we living our lives? Does giving in any form figure in our priorities? Do our children learn from us to give - of their little resources, time, effort and of themselves? Do they help another child who finds a subject difficult to understand? Do they share their tasty lunch with others? Do they make time to help grand-dad or grand-mum? Do they reach out to siblings who need help in some way? Do they understand the problems that parents face and offer to make some small sacrifice to help out? Do they forgive the wrongs done to them? Do they stop complaining and start appreciating others? Are they grateful to God for all the good things they have received in life? The list is endless. But you get the drift.
When we instruct them and set the right example, there is a fair chance that they will learn to give and make giving a way of life. God bless.
Warren Buffet donated $31 billion to charity. He lives in a modest three room house, drives his own car and carries no cellphone. Bill Gates donated $28 billion to charity. And, Andrew Carnegie, the steel tycoon, sold his business to do charity. He said: "The man who dies rich, dies disgraced." Mother Teresa dedicated her to the service of the poorest of the poor. Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison for a cause. And Jesus set the ultimate example in forgiveness, when he forgave his persecutors and tormentors from the cross. What do all these great people teach us? Living is in giving - not just in cash, but more importantly, giving ourselves through love.
How are we living our lives? Does giving in any form figure in our priorities? Do our children learn from us to give - of their little resources, time, effort and of themselves? Do they help another child who finds a subject difficult to understand? Do they share their tasty lunch with others? Do they make time to help grand-dad or grand-mum? Do they reach out to siblings who need help in some way? Do they understand the problems that parents face and offer to make some small sacrifice to help out? Do they forgive the wrongs done to them? Do they stop complaining and start appreciating others? Are they grateful to God for all the good things they have received in life? The list is endless. But you get the drift.
When we instruct them and set the right example, there is a fair chance that they will learn to give and make giving a way of life. God bless.
