Reciprocity
Lucy Grossmith | enquiries@heart-to-art.com
If you want love, give love. If you want respect, give respect. What you give, you get.
Last week's post touched on the benefits of living with a spirit of gratefulness.
This week, inspired by Robin Wall Kimmerer’s latest book, The Serviceberry, I felt compelled to explore the theme of reciprocity.
During the Christmas season, the idea of gratitude leading to reciprocity is beautifully evident in the traditions and practices associated with the holiday.
The season often begins with reflecting on what we are thankful for—family, friendships, and the year's blessings. The broader spirit of Christmas encourages us to pay it forward after reflecting on the kindness we have received throughout the year. In every expression of gratitude, from gift exchanges to acts of charity, the Christmas season transforms our thankfulness into action, embodying the spirit of love, generosity, and connection.
The themes of generosity, love, family, and goodwill resonate universally, transcending religious boundaries. Interestingly, many non-Christians celebrate the spirit of Christmas worldwide, often embracing its cultural and secular aspects rather than its religious significance.
“The joy of giving is the very essence of life itself.” - Thomas Carlyle
Many people, grateful for their abundance or community, are moved to acts of generosity, such as donating to food banks, participating in toy and food drives such as Prince Edward Island's Santa's Angels, or volunteering at shelters to share their blessings with those in need.
Christmas gatherings also strengthen relationships, where gratitude for loved ones is expressed through thoughtful gestures like writing cards, preparing meals, or simply offering time and attention.
For those celebrating the birth of Christ, the season focuses on our gratitude for his birth, which often inspires acts of service, worship, and kindness, appreciating the generosity for the divine gift.
I sincerely appreciate our church offering a unique and separate service for those who find the Christmas season difficult. The season once carried memories that brought feelings of sadness. With the love of my wife, children, and friends I’m so grateful to have moved beyond those feeling. Through embracing the season's true meaning, I found healing and hope. The wisest life choices was surrendering to the reason for the season and releasing the pain to my heart and soul.
The practice of reciprocity imparts an invaluable lesson, as eloquently expressed by Maya Angelou: "When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed.”
Indeed, true generosity lies in giving without expectation and usually generates a ripple effect of reciprocated kindness. And for this reason, I hope you can share your love and appreciation with a heart full of gratitude, even if your gratitude is only for the gift of breathing and the chance to be inspired or to inspire.
Sharing is about fostering meaningful relationships. The energy we invest in this life—whether it be love, respect, or compassion—ultimately returns to you.
Inspiring Things...
I highly recommend Michael Jr.'s comedy special for its superb, clean humour. I encourage you to watch it in its entirety, ideally over the holidays with family, when you can fully appreciate its wit and charm.
12 Neighbours is a micro-home community in Fredericton, New Brunswick. You can join the Development Fund with $20/month. Your contribution powers jobs, counselling, education, health, and recovery, driving lasting transformation for individuals who have been homeless or cast away from society. Bless Marcel LeBrun, whose vision, heart, and resources have benefited so many.
While writing this newsletter, I have been enjoying the sounds of the handpan, a unique, modern musical instrument known for its ethereal, melodic, and soothing sound. Listen here, but be prepared to relax.
