Taking, Giving and Receiving: A Social Awakening

As a newly unattached person certain types of social encounters are very new for me.  It was not so long ago that I would not have expected to be in such social situations but fate has conspired to lead my life in a new direction. Now I must judge people relative to how they might fit into my new life.  It has become obvious to me that I have much to learn.  Many people have been gracious enough to assist in my teaching.  As a result of one such learning experience I have had the wonderful opportunity to realizing a sort of social awakening.

This particular set of experiences has awakened my mind to the realization that I will meet those in life who are “takers” and those that are “givers”.  Often times it is not evident which person is a “taker” and which is a “giver.”  Each is your “friend” and will be aware of you while in your presence.  However, over time, as varied sets of circumstances arise, one’s true character will surface and each sort of person will be clearly delineated.  “Takers” and what they take will come in various forms.  They may take your time.  They may take your energy.  They may take your ideas.  They may take your possessions.  What clearly separates the “takers” is that there is little, if any, giving in return for their bits of taking.  They my give a smiling thank you or a hug, which forms a bridge for their next taking but they will give little of themselves.  Oftentimes, the clearest signal of a “taker” will be that they do not seem to be available when one needs their support or assistance.

Also, I have come to notice those which are “givers” but who are pleased to tell of their giving.  To me, those are “takers” in the disguise of “givers”.  They give only to take praise from those to whom they have given.  Yes, it is giving but not giving without reward.  Giving in search of a reward is faux giving.

Lastly, there are the “givers”.  They walk silently among us, constantly watching for ways to contribute.  They give with joy.  They are kind.  What they give may be a smile or a comforting pat on the back.  They give encouragement.  They give their time and their energy.  It is always pleasing to be in their company.  They may give things but those are the least of their gifts.  “Givers” are not easy to identify but they are always available.

Oftentimes the “takers” are beautiful to behold and offer short periods of joyful noise, but, as for me, this social awakening has led me to prefer to slowly stroll along the path of life with the “givers”, allowing the “takers” to pass on by.