Chapter 1: The Journey of Giving and Receiving

When contemplating the question, "Who do you become when you learn to receive?" the answer could change your life forever.

Photo by Giulia Bertelli on Unsplash

In my earlier life, I identified strongly as a giver—a mother, educator, and nurturer. I often participated in fundraising for various causes, always concluding with the cliché, "May you always be on the giving end." To me, giving was a noble and cherished act.

However, everything shifted when I became a single mother to four children, the youngest being just a baby. Upon hearing my news, my childhood friends from different parts of the world rallied together online and gifted me a substantial amount of money.

The moment I received that gift, I was overwhelmed with emotion, tears streaming down my face. I even considered refusing the money. In search of validation, I confided in a friend. I was grappling with a soft yet clear voice in my mind echoing doubts like, "Me? Accept money? Am I in need? I can manage my expenses! I'm an independent woman!"

Her response was direct and powerful, as if she were oblivious to my internal conflict: “Chany, if you can’t accept, you can’t truly give.” It was a revelation that hit me hard.

I went home, repeating that phrase: "If you don’t know how to receive, you don’t know how to give." Giving and receiving are intertwined; one cannot exist without the other. If there is no one to accept a gift, the act of giving loses its significance. If I truly appreciate the beauty of generosity, how could I deny another the pleasure of giving to me?

Why is the act of giving considered selfless only when I am the one in control? What are my real motives when I reach out to assist someone else?

You can be generous by accepting.

— Gretchen Rubin

Photo by Ronny Sison on Unsplash

When I look down upon someone, thinking, “Look at her—she’s in need, lost, and struggling. I, the strong and capable one, will help her,” that isn’t kindness; it’s pride. It diminishes the other’s vulnerability, even if it’s only in my thoughts.

Conversely, if I observe someone and think, “Look at him—he’s strong yet vulnerable, striving through challenges. Is there something I can do to lighten his load, even momentarily?” that reflects true compassion.

Seeing another person in their totality, with all their struggles and aspirations, allows me to recognize the common humanity we share. Our burdens, fears, and dreams enrich our lives and shape our futures.

If I can view others with compassion and humility, why not extend that same perspective to myself?

Who do you become when you learn to receive? You transform into a more humble, understanding individual—more loving, compassionate, and ultimately, more human.

Chapter 2: Embracing the Art of Receiving

The first video titled "Learning to Receive - Part 1 | Joyce Meyer | Enjoying Everyday Life" delves into the significance of embracing the act of receiving and the inner transformation it brings.

The second video, "Learn how to receive & stop feeling unworthy," provides insights on overcoming feelings of unworthiness and embracing the joy of receiving.

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