We Are Spectators

It is well to give when asked, but it is better to give unasked through understanding; and to the open-handed the search for one who shall receive is joy greater than giving.

And is there aught you would withhold?

All you have shall someday be given; therefore give now that the season of giving may be yours and not your inheritors´.

You often say, "I would give but only to the deserving." The trees in your orchard say not so, nor the flocks in your pasture. They give that they may live, for to withold is to perish.

Surely he who is worthy to receive his days and nights is worthy of all else from you. And who has deserved to drink from the ocean of life deserves to fill his cup from your little stream.

And what desert greater shall there be, than that which lies in the courage and the confidence, nay the charity, of receiving?

And who are you that men should render their bosom and unveil their pride, that you may see their worth naked and their pride unabashed?

See first that you yourself deserve to be a giver, and an instrument of giving.

For in truth it is life that gives unto life- while you, who deem yourself a giver are but a witness.


The Prophet, Khalil Gibran