Give without expectation

This Thanksgiving, try to make others happy, not just yourself. We can do this simply by “giving” others the opportunity to speak. Concisely put, we all need to popularize and make listening to a part of our everyday life.

The act of giving without expectation is a natural extension of this mindset. It can lead to beautiful compensation. When we give without expectation, we think of others before ourselves. I am reminded of the children's book by Shel Silverstein, “The Giving Tree.” The story is about a one-sided relationship and, more importantly, unconditional love and sacrifice. In the end, however, expectations go unfulfilled.

In today's world, we appear to take and take without giving back. Eventually, we will have nothing to give. This practice of exploitation is never enough. We have advanced more in technology than in values. Being kind and sharing is never a wasteful activity. Kindness can become oxygen. And, in certain individuals, it may increase serotonin levels.

Sometimes life surprises us. I am counting on it.

Bob Simmons

Arlington Heights