Did you know that when you give to others, it actually helps you as much as it helps them? Have you ever experienced this?
This Sunday I had a long day and was a bit tired; and if I may say, a little cranky. (Yes, that happens at times). We had hosted an event and had a lot of leftover food. For some reason, I had a strong desire to decompress and relax in my back yard. I packed up the event, drove my son to pick up his car, unloaded all the food at home out and was excited to hang out in my back yard.
My wife says to me, “This food is going to be wasted, we’re not going to eat this. Go to the homeless shelter and donate the food.” Argh, all I wanted to do was to hang out in the back yard. Soooo, I heeded her advice, repacked the car, head to the homeless shelter and donated all the food.
I arrived at the shelter, walked up and told them what I had for them, and they were all unbelievably grateful. Three of the residents came down and the look in their eyes as they saw what they were going to have for dinner was priceless. It was great and I felt great!
Why did I feel great? Did you know that when you do acts of kindness, the same amount of “feel good” chemicals released as if you are exercising. There is an influx of dopamine and oxytocin released when you show kindness to others. I just lived it with this experience and it’s true. I drove to the shelter a “Cranky-crankerson” and left there feeling amazing.
I hope the lesson I learned benefits all of you….and remember….pay it forward.
