“Before you call yourself a Christian, Buddhist, Muslim, Hindu or any other theology, learn to be human first.” (Quote by Shannon L. Alder)

Introduction

Altruism refers to a set of actions taken by an individual or a group of individuals with the intention of benefitting someone other than themselves. Altruism also refers to a situation in which we are successfully able to set aside our own selfish needs in order to do good for the society.

​It’s crucial to give back. You cannot spend your days ruthlessly filling your pot because eventually, the pot will break. It’s crucial to share and to share lovingly.

​Significance

​From a spiritual viewpoint, you must be worthy of receiving, and to become worthy of receiving, you must be fond of giving. This is precisely how the universe works in all of its totality. On numerous occasions, there have been cases wherein people have done everything in their power to achieve something they desire, put in countless hours and relentless effort to make something work but failed every time. On the contrary, many of us tend to stumble upon unimaginable wealth almost as if we were God’s own favorite. How do we explain such random phenomena? Can it be called an asymmetric outcome of fate? The only logical explanation for this can be derived from the concept of ‘karma’. You reap what you sow. It’s that simple. You give out a portion of your wealth to help those in need, you become worthy of receiving more.

​All successful leaders understand the significance of sharing, which is why almost all of them set up charities and foundations in order to help uplift the less fortunate ones. Now, not all of them are motivated by the idea of earning karmic entitlement. Some of them give because they have a moral compass that drives their actions. Some have more practical reasons and realize the importance of gaining the trust and admiration of the masses. While some give because they have more than they desire. The point is that the advantages of altruism have many facets. And also the fact that it never hurts to help someone in need. Bottom line: you have a lot to gain by sharing, and nothing to achieve by hoarding.

​Cultivation

​Altruism is a way of life. You need not have an abundance of gold before you start sharing. You can begin by taking baby steps at first. Set aside a small portion of your income which you shall give away to charity. It could be five percent initially, then ten, and then you may increase the portion further as you see fit. Altruism need not always involve tangible wealth. You could trade your time instead and provide services as a volunteer at any of the registered NGOs. Taking the initiative is what matters. 

​Choose the road which feels more comfortable and easily approachable. You could start teaching children belonging to households with limited means. You could pay extra as tip for the waiter who has been serving you so diligently. You could thank the guard who has been standing all day long under the scorching sun, opening and closing doors for the likes of you. When you think about it, the world is filled with opportunities for performing selfless deeds that are sure to put a smile on a burdened face. All you’ve got to do is observe.   

​Resources

​Coming soon!

​End Note

​Once you get into the habit of donating for a cause you believe in, you will not be able to stop or turn back even if you wanted to. Why is that? It’s because altruism makes you feel like an important member of the society. It makes you realize that you too can make a difference in your own capacity. And the feeling that accompanies such acts of selflessness is truly beautiful. In your final hours, you will never regret not making more money, or collecting more gold, or purchasing more property. But you will regret not doing more for the society. You will regret not trying to make the dent you’ve always wanted to make in this circle of life.

​PS. If you wish to become an accomplished human being, equipped with the right values and ethics, you should work on cultivating altruism as a virtue. It is one of the nine most important virtues of all times for promoting self development and growth.