Paying It Forward and Giving Back

We are where we are today because someone had paid it forward. 

Parents are a fine example of people who pay it forward as they make sacrifices out of love to raise their offspring and build a family life that contributes to the well being of their community.

Photo by Kabita Darlami on Unsplash

We could think of philanthropists who had made donations to build schools or charities; teachers who imparted knowledge and taught us how to catch our own fish and stay hungry for more fish; bosses or mentors who led us by example as they walk their talk.

If we think back, we will find that their are a lot of people whom we can be thankful for.

As we come of age or even before that, the cycle of good deeds could originate from us, as well. It is time to give back. We will be the richer for doing so as a family member and stakeholder of our community. Our calling is not to be hoarders, but to be a person who keep a lookout for our neighbours -- anyone who has a need. As Secret Santa would have us know, no deed is too small.

For example, giving up your seat in the train to an elderly person may seem insignificant to you, but it is weighty to that senior citizen with weak knees.

This social infrastructure of paying forward and giving back is caught rather than taught. It requires us to buy-in with willing hearts fortified with commitment to make a sacrifice of time, effort and/or finances.

Some of those who had helped us may had passed on in life, but their good deeds will be remembered forever. And, memories of them would continue to encourage and inspire us to emulate their fine examples.

When we do our part, we could likewise leave a lasting legacy to our beneficiaries. Let us do what we can to make a difference as this is a logical step for us to remain humane and steer clear of indifference.

We will reap what we have sown if we do not grow weary in doing good. All of us will grow old sooner than we are prepared to face the hard truth. Start sowing early.

Click here for Maroon 5 - Memories (Lyrics).