Tiny Wisdom: On Getting

“In the long run we get no more than we have been willing to risk giving.” -Sheldon Kopp

Fear tells us to hold on for dear life or else something bad might happen.

Fear tells us to cling to the people we love so that we will not lose them. Fear tells us not to share what we have or else we might not have enough. Fear tells us not to spend any money because we might need what we give up.

Fear is the voice that says, “Don’t let go,” but it’s only when we release and free our arms that we’re ready to receive.

It’s not because giving always equals getting–it’s because we generally don’t open ourselves to what might be when we’re cowering in fear, clutching onto what is.

There is always going to be the possibility of loss in life. Some risks don’t pay off, and there’s no way to get around that. But the only way to get to the ones that do pay off is to decide the possibility is worth the risk.

I haven’t always been trusting in love. I haven’t always been generous with what I have. I haven’t always been bold with my resources. But today I choose possibility over fear. Do you?

Photo by harminder dhesi photography

Comments

3 responses to “Tiny Wisdom: On Getting”

  1. […] of the Day From 25 February 2010: “In the long run we get no more than we have been willing to risk giving.” -Sheldon Kopp July […]

  2. Amanda Avatar
    Amanda

    Yes Lori, I do! Well, I would like to. Just like you, I struggle with being open vs fearful in all facets of life. When I’m aware and mindful, of course I consciously make a decision to be open. But I’m worried it may be those times when you react based on instinct (and most likely fear) that count the most.
    It’s a journey! Beautiful post, thanks as always for the ‘stop and think-er’
    Amanda

  3. Lori Deschene Avatar

    You’re most welcome. =)

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