Give

[4woody]

“Give more.

Give what you didn’t get.

Love more.

Drop the old story.”

— Garry Shandling

[3crazydogs]

Hi 4woody.... interesting post. That’s what I try to do, but my story is still the same :-(....

[4woody in reply to 3crazydogs]

does that mean you have not dropped the story? Experience has taught me there are a lot of stories like yours and mine. And some live to give what they got... which says a lot about our culture I think. Simply choosing to give what I didn’t get ... at the very least won’t cause harm. Our stories will never change, never be rewritten. May the stories we write with our giving become more numerous than the stars.

[3crazydogs in reply to 4woody]

if I am interpreting this correctly.... I give kindness and I listen, but I’m still waiting to receive the same. Still waiting to develop relationships based on long term mutual kindness. No we can’t change our story, but we can write a new one.... but that isn’t happening for me ..... “which says a lot about our culture “ I think too.

[4woody in reply to 3crazydogs]

I'm sorry a new story has not begun for you at this time. I myself have stopped waiting to receive kindness. Most humans are so lacking they feel they can't afford to be so generous with time or talents or kindness. Like me, they are afraid. I enjoy when a day surprises me with kindness. It is never expected. Still, I want to give what I Have not received. The giving causes me to feel a little better than not giving. It's just a choice.

[3crazydogs in reply to 4woody]

Thank you! Yes I am learning to appreciate the small things! When I relay my day to my husband I am focusing on the small gestures... like you taking the time to have this conversation with me :-). I can only hope these small steps are leading towards the mutual kindness I’m looking for. Thank you for your post and the conversation. 🙏

[4woody in reply to 3crazydogs]

I hope so too!