“Life is an echo. What you send out, comes back. What you sow, you reap. What you give, you get. What you see in others, exists in you.”
—Zig Ziglar
As I reflect on my 70 years of life, one resounding truth echoes through my experiences: “You get in life what you give in life.” This profound statement encapsulates the essence of living fully and embracing the myriad opportunities that life presents to us. There is an undeniable miracle in saying “yes” to life, which opens doors to experiences that enrich our souls and expand our horizons. By giving more of ourselves, we not only uplift others but also invite joy and abundance into our own lives.
While on my vacation this week, in Cabo, this has become even clearer to me. We are enjoying the time with our good friends, Chris and Marie. Today, we are going to enjoy the beautiful scenes, but also take advantage of opportunities I wouldn’t usually do. Whether it’s taking a class on making guacamole or singing at a Karaoke bar tonight. I have never sung in public one time in my life, but tonight, I’m going to sing, more for Nancy then anything else. I’m going to sing the Elvis song “Can’t help falling in love”. Like I said I’ve never sung in public ever, but tonight, no matter what I will sing and enjoy the moment and embrace life and also express what I feel for my beautiful wife. Gulp!
I thought to myself, how can we embrace life and give more of ourselves? Here are five powerful ways to do just that:
1. Volunteer Your Time: Engaging in philanthropy is not just about donating money; it’s about investing your time and energy into causes that resonate with you. Whether it’s working with local charities, mentoring youth, or participating in community clean-up initiatives, volunteering can profoundly change your perspective. The connections you forge and the gratitude you receive in return create a cycle of positivity that enriches both your life and the lives of those around you.
2. Cultivate Meaningful Relationships This morning while at the coffee shop, I was getting coffee for Nancy and me, plus some pastries. While there three guys came in and while waiting right behind me, they spoke about their wives in the most negative ways. Basically, how angry they were with them. I thought to myself, well you are getting in your relationship what you are giving. It’s literally a universal law. We often get caught up in our busy lives our own agendas forgetting the importance of nurturing our relationships. Make a conscious effort to invest time in your loved ones. Surprise your spouse with a spontaneous date night or spend quality time with your friends or even sing in public! As you give more of yourself to these relationships, you’ll find that the love and support you receive in return are unparalleled. It’s a beautiful reminder that our connections with others are vital to our happiness.
3. Share Your Knowledge and Skills: Everyone possesses unique talents and experiences that can be shared with others. Consider mentoring someone in your field or teaching a skill you’re passionate about. The act of sharing not only helps others grow but also reinforces your own knowledge and self-worth. By giving your expertise freely, you foster an environment of growth and learning that can lead to unexpected collaborations and opportunities.
4. Practice Gratitude and Kindness. Each day, take a moment to express gratitude for the things you have and the people in your life. A simple “thank you” or a compliment can drastically change someone’s day. Kindness is infectious; when you give gratitude and kindness, you create a ripple effect that extends far beyond what you can see. The more you practice these virtues, the more they will return to you in the form of love, joy, and fulfillment. I know here at our resort when we say thank you to the amazing staff, they welcome that small gesture with a gracias and then put their hands over their hearts. How special is that?
5. Embrace New Experiences: Challenge yourself to step outside of your comfort zone. Whether it’s traveling to a new destination, trying out a new hobby, or attending local events, embracing new experiences opens your life to endless possibilities. Each adventure is an opportunity to give to yourself and to others. You’ll discover new passions, meet incredible people, and create lasting memories that enrich your life in unimaginable ways. Plus, you might even learn how to make great guacamole.
In conclusion, life is a beautiful tapestry woven from the threads of our experiences, connections, and contributions. When we open our hearts and embrace all that life has to offer, we unlock the door to countless opportunities for growth, joy, and fulfillment. Remember, the more you give, the more you receive. So, say “yes” to life, and watch as the amazing results of your giving unfold before you. Your journey of abundance awaits!
