BABY NEEDS A NEW PAIR OF SHOES

with Charmaine Roots Castillo

BABY NEEDS A NEW PAIR OF SHOES

In his early teens, my son Curtis was a devoted skateboarder who was frequently found at the Skate Park of Tampa (SPOT). I was worried when he returned from the SPOT one day without his shoes.

"I was teaching this kid at the park how to skateboard, but he didn't have the right shoes, so I gave him mine," he explained.

I was deeply moved by his generous act of kindness. Weeks later, I noticed boxes of brandnew skateboarding shoes in his closet. I was a single mom, struggling financially to make ends meet, and the last thing I needed was my kids getting in any kind of trouble. When I confronted him about the boatload of shoes, once again, I was moved by his response.

"I have a skateboarding sponsor who provides me with shoes," he said matter-of-factly. Once again, my heart was overjoyed for more reasons than one. What touched me the most was seeing a principle I had instilled in him come to life.

"Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

Luke 6:38 (NIV)

Curtis experienced, for himself, how the law of reciprocity operates. Much like the law of gravity, it's undeniable. He created a space for abundance by giving what he had. The harvest reaped from that one act of kindness not only blessed him, but I also benefitted from his blessing. I never had to buy him another pair of shoes throughout his teen years!

Did you know that you have that same power to obtain wealth? Material possessions aside, what is in your hand that you can use as a deposit into your future? Look within at the gifts, talents, or abilities you currently possess and consider how you can use them to be a blessing to others.

Giving selflessly is a crucial element in receiving abundant blessings. Generosity activates a universal law that ensures a return with interest. The "every man for himself" or "dog eat dog" mentality attracts like-minded individuals into your circle. When it comes to the law of reciprocity, it works both ways. When you are a blessing, you receive blessings, but giving sparingly, half-heartedly, or with a hidden agenda will cause you to reap exactly what and how you sow. How you give is a direct reflection of your heart's intention and is closely linked to how you will receive. So, what's it gonna be?

In what areas of your life could you use just a little bit more of something? Are you willing to give a little bit more to help others? Whether you're contributing from your personal treasury of gifts and abilities or being generous with your time, it paves the way for your future self to thrive. Understand that no one owes you anything; however, you owe it to yourself to create the life of abundance that you want. It's quite okay to ask for help, but before requesting a withdrawal, make sure you have made a deposit.

You have the God-given ability to establish yourself as a gift that keeps on giving. Give wisely and prepare for the downpour of blessings. I hear the sound of the abundance of rain—do you hear it?

Roots Castillo is a creative writer promoting hope, encouragement, and brighter perspectives. For inspiration galore, follow her on FB @CharmaineLaFondé

Charmaine