Sharing the Joy: A Mantra for a Meaningful Life

A prominent writer explores the transformative power of care and sharing, urging us to prioritize connection and generosity over material accumulation.

Our true progress lies in fostering a culture where compassion and sharing are woven into the fabric of our everyday lives. As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly pervasive, we must reflect on its limitations and focus on cultivating the uniquely human qualities of empathy and consciousness.

While many acknowledge the importance of these virtues, the gap between words and actions remains a significant concern. It's easy to wonder, "What difference can one person make?" The answer is: a substantial one. Imagine if just the top 10% of the wealthy shared a mere 10% of their wealth; the impact would be transformative, addressing hunger, ensuring access to quality education, and making healthcare readily available to a vast majority.

"Give with grace and receive with gratitude" should be our life's motto. We should make caring and sharing an ingrained part of our daily routine, offering without expecting anything in return. By nurturing seeds of change, we can translate our beliefs into tangible action. Utilising our time and resources wisely, we can elevate the quality of our lives and the lives of those around us.

For me, the simple act of finding someone to care for or share with each day is a source of profound joy. It leaves me with cherished memories, and I see more and more people embracing this approach.

Genuine care and support can work wonders. The unconditional love and care we receive from our mothers during childhood is a powerful foundation, but as we mature, we often take these gifts for granted. This can create distance in our relationships and affect our long-term happiness.

My maternal grandmother provided a shining example of care in my life. She would travel miles to see my daughter during illness, always carrying chocolates – two for me, and the rest for my cousins, fostering the habit of sharing. My deepest relationships today are with those who have cared for me unconditionally, or whom I've cared for in the same way.

Prioritising self-care is crucial too. I start each day and end it with a prayer of gratitude, acting as a happiness booster throughout my day. During my morning walks, I take the time to inquire about people's well-being, offer assistance when needed, or share food with those less fortunate. The key is to share with grace, not as a favour, but as a genuine act of kindness.

One winter's night, I witnessed a poignant example of selfless care. An elderly man, struggling with heavy baggage, was attempting to climb the stairs to an aircraft. I offered to help, and he gratefully handed me his bags. On landing, I retrieved my bags, and he requested his. Initially, I felt a twinge of irritation, but as I approached him, he smiled and pointed to a pregnant young lady. "These aren't mine," he said. He had been helping her despite his own health challenges.

This level of care is essential for our loved ones, who we often take for granted. We should indulge in acts of kindness regularly, without burning ourselves out, as these moments will bring us joy and lasting memories.

Every day, I make an effort to perform at least one act that aligns with my spouse, parents, or children's wishes. I might prepare tea for my father just the way he likes it or fulfill a request from my wife. I also make a conscious effort to inquire about people's well-being at the beginning of each day.

One instance that stands out is a senior client, who had been incredibly helpful to me during a difficult time, falling ill. He was hospitalised in another city, and I happened to be there for work. I managed to visit him during non-visiting hours. Overwhelmed with emotion, he asked why I had gone to such trouble. I simply said, "When you were in the chair, I was a nobody. Your support and guidance helped me stand. I can never forget that." This act serves as a valuable lesson for my children.

The importance of sharing extends beyond material possessions; it encompasses emotions, gratitude, and appreciation for others. Many people focus solely on accumulating wealth, failing to realise that true fulfilment comes from giving back. They hoard possessions, only to discard them later when they lose their usefulness. The joy of seeing someone receive something they need far outweighs the satisfaction of having one more item in our wardrobe or fridge. My mother instilled in me the wisdom to "Do what's good for you, and let others do what's good for them."

Most of us have an abundance of food and clothing. To avoid excess, I make it a point to never let my fridge or wardrobe overflow. I distribute any surplus to those in need. During a cyclone, I shared a candle and milk powder with an elderly neighbour and my car washer. In that moment, these simple things were priceless, providing much-needed comfort and light. Seeing them share their tea with others filled me with immense satisfaction, reminding me that kindness always finds its way back.

As I approach the end of my life, I want to feel a deep sense of joy for my ability to care for and share with others as a daily routine. We come into this world with nothing, and we leave with nothing. I'm already living a life filled with daily sparks of joy and cherished memories, and I hope to leave behind a legacy that I can be proud of.

Try your own acts of kindness, without expecting anything in return. You may just create the most fulfilling memories of your life. Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a difference to humanity. Let's create memories that will last a lifetime, unlike fleeting happiness tied to material possessions.