The Wisdom of Giving
Morning Reflection
This morning, my routine was as normal. I began with one hour of Vipassana Meditation, followed by five minutes of Mettā Bhāvanā, or Loving-Kindness Meditation. After that, I went swimming in the peaceful Mekong River. I returned home for breakfast, washed the dishes, took a shower, and then left for the café.
Although the morning began peacefully, one small incident at the Mekong River gave me something meaningful to reflect upon.
When I arrived at the swimming area, I met a man whom I know, and he also knows me. We are not close friends, but we know each other through another friend. When I saw him, I greeted him warmly and asked, “How are you?”
He saw me and walked past me without replying or even smiling.
I immediately noticed something within myself. I wondered whether he might have been disappointed with me because of something that happened previously. I had intended to donate $2.50 to support his project. Perhaps he expected a larger contribution because other people had donated $100 or more.
I cannot know exactly what was in his mind, and I do not want to judge him. But the situation reminded me of an important principle: when we give, the value of our giving comes from our intention, not simply from the amount of money.
For me, $2.50 was what I sincerely wished to give at that moment. It was my goodwill. If another person does not appreciate that amount, I cannot control their feelings. My responsibility is to give according to my ability and intention, not according to someone else’s expectations.
At the same time, this experience reminded me that giving should also be guided by wisdom.
We do not have to donate simply because someone asks. We can take time to understand where our contribution is needed and whether our support will genuinely benefit people.
Sometimes we may encounter fundraising requests where the purpose is unclear. In such situations, it is reasonable to ask questions, seek information, and decide carefully before giving. Saying “No” does not necessarily mean that we are selfish or unwilling to help. Sometimes it means that we are choosing to use our limited resources more responsibly.
We cannot control how other people respond to our generosity. We cannot make everyone appreciate what we give. What we can control is our own intention, our own judgment, and our own decision.
This morning taught me that generosity should have both a kind heart and a wise mind.
Give when you can.
Give where there is genuine need.
Give without demanding appreciation.
And when you feel that a request is not appropriate for you, learn to say “No” peacefully.
We may not be able to change another person’s attitude, but we can choose where we place our time, money, energy, and trust.
True generosity should bring goodness—not unnecessary regret or disturbance.
When we give with a pure intention and wise judgment, we can help others while also protecting the peace within ourselves.
🌿 Reflection
When I give, am I giving from genuine goodwill and wisdom, or am I giving because I feel pressured to please someone?
🌱 Practice
Before making a donation today, pause and ask three questions:
“Is there a genuine need?”
“Will my contribution be useful?”
“Am I giving freely, without expecting anything in return?”
Then make your decision peacefully.
💚 Blessing
May our hearts remain generous and our minds remain wise.
May we learn to give without attachment, help without expecting praise, and say no without guilt when necessary.
May our generosity bring genuine benefit to others while allowing peace, wisdom, and compassion to remain within our own hearts.
— Raksmey Koy
Art of Inner Peace
www.artofinnerpeace.com
Continue Your Journey
If today’s reflection touched your heart, I invite you to explore my books on Amazon. Each one is written to inspire mindfulness, wisdom, and inner peace. Thank you for walking this journey with me.
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