Why Must We Share?
There is an inbuilt fuse in all of us that cuts off our supply of happiness unless we share it with others.
Sharing is, in fact, a very natural instinct in humans. Can you imagine where we would have been if our ancestors had not co-operated and shared food, shelter and arrangements of security? Through sharing resources, information and knowledge, we save time and energy and create free time for ourselves. Google and Wikipedia have gained gigantic proportions by sharing knowledge for free. Sharing also helps create trust, which is a prerequisite for security and happiness. When we share our feelings, knowledge and possessions with others, we create a relationship of trust, which in most cases flows back and helps us feel secure and happy.
Not just religions world over, but even top corporate leaders and thinkers believe in the benefits of giving and sharing. A survey at Harvard Business School in 2008 showed that when one gives away a sum of money, it helps lift his own well-being more than if he spends it on himself.
Not long ago, whenever any household prepared a special dish, invariably some of it would be sent to the neighbours. In turn, they would fill the dish with goodies before returning it. My mother remembers the many happy hours spent with neighbouring women baking, throwing away burnt dishes and then emerging triumphantly with successful ones. That is how we shared our experiences and our successes. There was always enough for everyone. Today, we make just enough for ourselves and have no time or inclination for sharing. As a result, most of us do not even know the people who live next door, leading to unsafe, insecure neighbourhoods and skirmishes over minor issues such as parking spaces or pets.
What is the use of an idea unless it is uttered? What good is a dream unless executed? What good are thoughts unless used to benefit others? What good is happiness or success unless shared? Those who wish to succeed must help others succeed, like the farmer on the corn field. Those who wish to live well, must help others do so. And if it is happiness you want, start spreading the warmth and goodness to others around.
Tags: Sharing
