“Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened.  Happiness never decreases by being shared.”
? Buddha

I’ve been reflecting a lot on the process of Giving and Receiving.

Receiving creates a moment of connection

Why is it easier and seemingly more acceptable to give than to receive?

There are several reasons for this.
To an extent, resisting receiving, whether it’s help, a compliment or a gift may stem from a fear of intimacy.  It is a subtle way to defend the heart and the risk of connection. Giving can provide a type of control; and there also may be the belief that it’s selfish to ask or receive.

These are very sensitive observations.
Giving and receiving are two sides of the same coin of intimacy…and ultimately, love.

Recognizing we too, deserve help and love not only provides the pleasure of giving to the giver, but opens our hearts towards acceptance of one’s self. Receiving allows us to reveal a vulnerable part of ourselves. Acknowledging and staying in this tender place, we’re more available to receive the gifts we’re offered every day.

Whenever we obstruct or inhibit the flow of energy, it will result in limitation, frustration, and stagnation. Therefore, it only makes sense that we embrace the way of giving as well as joyful receiving.

By receiving with a tender self-compassion, we’re allowing ourselves to be touched by life’s gifts. Allowing ourselves to receive graciously is a gift to the giver. It conveys that their giving has made a difference.

Each day, each encounter, bring a gift may it be a smile, a compliment or a flower.

Each day, each encounter, be open to the gifts life has to offer; be it warm sunlight or first snow.

Each day commit to the flow of giving and receiving, especially the gifts of appreciation, caring and love.