The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran
This book could only be described as absolutely beautiful. I had to read it through several times because the words were written so poetically, and the way Mr. Gibran saw the world was quite interesting.
The Prophet was a wise man that was about to leave the city of Orphalese. Before he left though, the people of the city as him to disclose to them, "...all that has been shown...of that which is between life and death." They wanted him to impart them with some wisdom so they could pass it on to the latter generations. So one by one the people of the city asked the Prophet to speak on the subjects of life, such as Love, Children, Laws, Freedom, Joy and Sorrow, Reason and Passion, and Self-Knowledge.
My favorite subject that the Prophet spoke on was Giving. "There are those who give little of the much which they have — and they give it for recognition and their hidden desire makes their gifts unwholesome. And there are those who have little and give it all. These are the believers in life and the bounty of life, and their coffer is never empty." Those who have little and give it all. Those words remind me of my father. He did not have much when he was alive, but yet he gave freely of his time and showed so much love to those around him. I finally understand why he enjoyed doing so much for his community. He gave, simply for the joy of giving. I see the same compassion and kindness and joy in giving to others in the volunteers that come in for AVP and the Legion of Mary. So I ask myself, why can't I give it all? The answer is, I can. The words of Mr. Gibran have inspired me, and I have resolved to make it a habit to share and give of myself and my experiences when given an opportunity at my next AVP workshop, or just in my daily interactions with everyone around me.
"...give as in yonder valley the myrtle breathes its fragrance into space. Through the hands of such as these God speaks, and from behind their eyes He smiles upon the earth." That is how I aspire to be able to give.
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