What counts?
Hi everyone! This is my first day on this site and giving officially, but not my first day trying the Giving Challenge.
I had started before, on my own, without looking at the website first. I had a really successful first week except that I was either a bit busy or a bit tired because eventually I realized that I kept forgetting to do the giving consciously. Then it would be nighttime and I'd realize I hadn't given anything consciously.
That's the key word. I realized throughout the first several days that I did give a lot more than I realized. However I felt that if it wasn't conscious, it didn't count.
I kept asking myself, "Does this count? Did that count?"
For instance, I was getting paid to help an older couple for the day. It was a challenging day. I had to help the poor woman in the bathroom about 8 times in 5 hours. I was kind and helpful and loving, but I was getting paid to help, so did it count? And if it didn't, then I realized I didn't have much energy left at the end of the day.
Do any of you have feedback on this?
Another question that comes up is: If it's fun, does it count? That sounds silly, I'm sure. But if it's easy - taking time with a cat or dog or giving a smile or whatever, it doesn't feel like it should count. But giving shouldn't always be something we don't like to do, right????
This is bringing up lots of interesting questions for me.
One thing I will do differently this time is have a reminder in an obvious place. And write down ideas of things I can do. And try to remember to begin my days with affirmations/meditation/prayer.
Thank you, All!
Cindy
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Lois55 wwt on -
Hi, Cindy..giving intentionally counts, no matter if it is pleasurable, taking care of someone, etc....You are giving of your time, patience and kindness while taking care of the elderly lady. It really helps to print out the giving calender that Cami has provided. If you write down your gives, you will realize how much you give in one day.Good luck... and if you have anymore questions, Michele and DebJ are wonderful ladies to ask.
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Permalink Reply by Cindy Greb on -
Thank you, Lois. I appreciate it!
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Permalink Reply by Deb~ Community Manager on -
It sure does count! You betcha. You gave from your heart with intention. You are doing wonderful things Cindy~
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Permalink Reply by Cindy Greb on
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Thank you, Deb. This makes me feel better. :)
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Permalink Reply by Deb~ Community Manager on
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Everything counts Cindy!
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Permalink Reply by Michele wwt on -
Cindy, I had many of the same questions when I began the challenge. Deb and Lois said it best....everything counts that is given with intention and from the heart. I think you will be amazed at how much a smile, a hug or kind word can mean to someone. Don't ever sell yourself short as I'm sure you are giving so much each and every day. Always remember that YOU are a gift and we are so happy to have you here with us. Take care and enjoy your giving journey. :)
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Permalink Reply by Cindy Greb on
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Thank you, Michele. It definitely has been a good learning for me to realize that I give more than I thought I did. It helps me feel better about myself. Blessings to you!
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Permalink Reply by genuine, wwt, welcomer on -
anything counts ... if you're asking if something was conscious giving - well, you're thinking about it so you're conscious of it; doesn't matter if you didn't recognize it as a gift until after it was already given; the point is that you recognized it as a gift
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Permalink Reply by Cindy Greb on
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Ya think? I'm still not so sure I agree. But if so, phew. Although I'm trying to be more conscious now beforehand.
Thanks for your feedback!
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Permalink Reply by Andrea D on -
Hi Cindy
you have posted this a while ago but I have just read it.
I have found cami,s calendar very useful as a reminder.
As far as what counts, for me its the gifts that open my heart and leave me feeling lighter, more joyful and in the present! a smile can do that!
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Permalink Reply by Deb~ Community Manager on
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Great points and answers to this often asked question~
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