Giving – Morgan O. Smith

A Reflection on Jesus’ Enlightenment

In a world often clouded by turmoil and uncertainty, the figure of Jesus stands as a beacon of what humanity can aspire to become. Regardless of one’s religious beliefs or lack thereof, there is an undeniable power in the ideals that Jesus represents. It’s not about the historical accuracy or the debates surrounding his existence; it’s about the essence of the individual he symbolizes – an essence that showcases humanity at its finest.

Jesus’ teachings, rooted in love, compassion, and empathy, are more than religious doctrines; they are universal values that transcend cultural and temporal boundaries. In these teachings, we find a guide to better ourselves and, by extension, the world around us. The message is simple yet profound: to cultivate an inner garden of love and understanding that spreads its seeds in every interaction.

The act of giving, as epitomized by Jesus, is not just a physical act of charity but a spiritual and emotional offering. To give up a piece of ourselves means to share our time, our understanding, and our compassion with others. This selflessness does not diminish us; instead, it enriches our lives, fills our hearts, and strengthens our communities.

In aspiring to be like Jesus or any figure that embodies the best of humanity, we challenge ourselves to grow beyond our limitations. It’s about striving to be the kind of person who acts with kindness, not for recognition or reward, but because it is inherently the right thing to do. It is about recognizing the interconnectedness of our lives and the impact of our actions on others.

In times of hardship, we often look for heroes and role models to guide us. Jesus’ enlightenment offers a path, not through miraculous feats, but through everyday acts of kindness and understanding. It’s in the small moments – a helping hand to a stranger, a listening ear to a friend in distress, a word of encouragement to someone losing hope – that the essence of what Jesus represents shines brightest.

As we reflect on the values epitomized by Jesus, let us commit to embodying these ideals in our daily lives. Let our actions be guided by love, our decisions by compassion, and our words by empathy. Let us be the ones who give, not just in material terms, but in the ways that truly matter – in understanding, in support, and love.

In doing so, we not only honour the legacy of figures like Jesus but also contribute to a world that is kinder, more compassionate, and more empathetic. It is in this effort that we find our greatest fulfillment and the true essence of what it means to be human.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Path of the Saint and the Bodhisattva

In the boundless depths of the ocean, a remarkable creature flourishes – the octopus. With its eight arms and three hearts, the octopus presents a fascinating analogy for a life dedicated to compassion and altruism. What if I told you that by embracing the wisdom of the octopus, you could walk the path of a saint or a bodhisattva?

Three Hearts, One Soul

The octopus’s three hearts are not just intriguing biological features; they symbolize a trinity that is central to a life of selflessness – compassion, wisdom, and courage. These three tenets are the lifeblood that sustains the spirit of those who strive to benefit others. Just as the octopus’s hearts pump vitality through its body, these principles energize and direct our moral compass.

Compassion is the first heart. It moves us to alleviate the suffering of others. Wisdom, the second heart, grants the discernment to understand the complexities of life and the interconnectedness of all beings. The third heart, courage, gives us the strength to act upon our compassion and wisdom even in the face of adversity.

Arms That Give

Now, imagine your capabilities and resources as the arms of an octopus. These are the conduits through which the heart’s intent flows into action. With its eight arms, an octopus can achieve an astonishing level of multitasking and adaptability. Likewise, when we apply our varied talents and strengths in the service of others, we, too, can touch many lives. The octopus doesn’t discriminate as to which of its arms is more worthy; similarly, no act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted.

The Saint and the Bodhisattva: A Singular Journey

To “be like the saint” is to embrace a life of purity, humility, and service. This aligns closely with the path of the bodhisattva in Buddhism, who seeks enlightenment not for personal gain but for the benefit of all sentient beings.

A true saint, like a bodhisattva, doesn’t keep score. The concept of giving without expecting anything in return is deeply rooted in this path. This is not to be confused with self-neglect; rather, it’s the understanding that in the giving, we receive. We receive growth, fulfillment, and connection – treasures that cannot be quantified.

An Octopus’s Embrace

So, let’s learn from our wise friend, the octopus. Let our three hearts be full of compassion, wisdom, and courage. Let our arms be open and giving. And may we swim through the currents of life with grace, as saints or bodhisattvas, serving as guardians and guides for all those navigating the tempestuous oceans of existence.

In embracing the octopus within, we embark on a journey that ripples through the waters of our communities and touches the shores of every heart. In this sacred odyssey, we do not merely live; we become vessels of immeasurable, boundless love.

Morgan O. Smith