Giving with Practice
Most religions include service, charity, or acts of giving as part of their core traditions. In Judaism, there’s tzedakah. In Christianity, tithing. In Islam, zakat. Across different belief systems, there’s an emphasis on caring for others—through time, money, effort, or presence.
But you don’t need to follow a religion to practice giving.
For a long time, I thought “giving” meant grand gestures—donations, volunteering for hours, doing more than I had. But that kind of pressure kept me stuck and avoiding it all together or burned out because it felt like too much. Over time, I learned to shift the question: What do I have to give right now?
When I volunteer to give my time, I prove to myself that I’m not completely powerless over my schedule. I see that I can choose where to focus, even in a busy time. When I give money—even a small amount—I feel a shift. I notice how privileged I am to be able to give—and how it often feels more meaningful than spending it on another coffee or dinner out.
When I used to work kids’ parties, a lot of families would tip. Most were average, but every once in a while, someone would go above and beyond. I’d be so excited, I’d call my mom afterward. It was fun to call her in a happy place and share that someone was generous in my direction. She loved hearing that joy in my voice.
One day, she and I were eating out, and she was treating me to lunch. After she paid the bill and left a tip, I slipped a few dollars on top. She looked at me, surprised. “Didn’t I leave enough?” I said, “Wouldn’t it be cool if our server calls their mom today the way I used to call you?”
She saw it differently after that.
Giving, to me, isn’t about obligation. It’s about offering something from a place of presence. It’s not about how much—it’s about the thought, the care, the intention. When I give, I feel more connected to others. And to myself.
Whether it’s time, money, attention, or kindness, giving can be a reminder of what we already have. And what we’re capable of offering.
ACTION: Give something from where you are today. Maybe it’s time, a kind word, or a few extra dollars. Give in a way that feels thoughtful—not forced.
