Consider a society that honors giving more than getting—how differently we would live. I recently came across Robert A. Heinlein, who wrote the book Between Planets (1951) and coined the term ‘pay it forward.’
Here is an excerpt from his book:
The banker reached into the folds of his gown, pulled out a single credit note. “But eat first—a full belly steadies the judgment. Do me the honor of accepting this as our welcome to the newcomer.”
His pride said no; his stomach said YES! Don took it and said, “Uh, thanks! That’s awfully kind of you. I’ll pay it back, first chance.” The banker turned and said, “Instead, pay it forward to some other brother who needs it.”
Next time you receive a gracious deed (no matter how small), take that generosity and pass it onto another who is in need, and allow this infinite gift to journey forward. Create the community you wish to live in and give…and in giving you will receive the biggest rewards.
Om shanti,
Dani
