By Penny K
We have, many a time, passed by panhandlers, blind buskers, tissue-selling aunties and uncles feeling an ambivalent mix of guilt and annoyance. Guilt for not willing to part with the meager sum of money they are asking for, and annoyance at the fact that they are everywhere.
Our hands are for receiving, but also giving
The thought about whether or not these people are shams or for real has of course crossed our minds before but nevertheless, I’m quite sure most of them are genuinely lost, alone and are in need. So I made a pact making it a point to bring spare cash along with me wherever I go so that when the opportunity arises, I am able to give.
Having done so for the past month, I realise that it’s a great feeling being able to give freely rather than be torn between giving and keeping (or hording) each time I pass by someone in need of compassion. Being compassionate comes with a certain freedom of mind and spirit. Being able to see giving as a freedom rather than an obligation or restriction can incite a delightful feeling from the opening of the heart.
As Deepak Chopra puts it, “The credo of the true self is joy with detachment”. Detachment here refers to the ability to peel oneself from these small territories (could be money, kindness, or even forgiveness) that you so fiercely, but at times needlessly guard.
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