Buddhist philosophy describes the “Perfection of Giving” as the practice of cultivating generosity. This can be characterized by unattached and unconditional generosity, giving and letting go. Giving leads to being reborn in happy states and material wealth.  Alternatively, lack of giving leads to unhappy states and poverty. The exquisite paradox is that the more we give – and the more we give without seeking something in return – the wealthier (in the broadest sense of the word) we will become. By giving we destroy those acquisitive impulses that ultimately lead to further suffering.

The paradox of giving is woven like a golden thread through the world’s spiritual traditions. Saint Francis, for instance, pointed to paradox when he said, “It is in giving that we receive”. Lao Tzu, the great Chinese sage and father of Taoism, taught, “If you would take, you must first give, this is the beginning of intelligence”.

Even the Bible quotes, “Give, and it shall be given to you. For whatever measure you deal out to others, it will be dealt to you in return”. According to the ancient Indian folklore, the Jataka tales, “If you have little, give a little; if you have a middling amount, give a middling amount; if you have much, give much.  It is not fitting not to give at all.  Kosiya, I say to you, `Share your wealth, use it. Tread the path of the Noble Ones. One who eats alone eats not happily.“

The words of truth are always paradoxical. As H.E. Tsem Tulku Rinpoche says:

“Kindness is the root focus and result to develop when we are doing spiritual practice.  That is the defining mark of a person who engages in the spiritual path.  Kindness develops when we realize we are TRULY interdependent, that our survival is intimately dependent on others.  As others are more and oneself is one, focusing on others would be the logical choice.

So hence, taking other people’s concerns as the core of our daily thoughts is much more worthwhile for ourselves and others.  Otherwise, as spiritualists, what defines us from others?  It must be genuine kindness.  If we apply daily effort, it does develop and is VERY WORTHWHILE TO ACHIEVE.

It is the true elixir of life.  It brings tremendous mental sanity, stability, purpose and security.

Isn’t that what we all want?”