Participating in charitable endeavors through volunteering and donations is a bit like exercising. After realizing the benefits the additional personal effort provides to others, it’s easier to keep going and make charity a way of life.
For Douglas Gerard Kleinsmith, giving back took root when he was a child growing up in a family with nine other siblings. His family lived modestly, and it was necessary to work extremely hard for any extras — even a first bicycle. He quickly realized how important lending a “hand up” could be for others who need a boost to move forward with less worry and more opportunities for a successful, fulfilling life journey.
Personal Responsbility
For some critics of widespread charitable efforts, a central argument is often the idea that others should be able to pull themselves up by the bootstraps if they really try. For the more altruistically minded like Doug Kleinsmith, success is viewed as both something earned and something given.
An element of blessing, of luck or timing, is a feature in many pathways to wealth, personal fulfillment and traditional views of career achievements. There is a happenstance meeting, a moment that felt guided or a 50/50 chance taken with a happy ending. Kleinsmith believes in the need to pass on the same blessing to others and to, when necessary, act as “your brother’s keeper.”
This means dedicating time, energy and resources to others. As the Bible states in Chapter 12, Verse 48 of Luke, “To whom much is given, much will be required.”
The same basic thought repeats itself throughout holy books, self-help advice and even comic books, such as when Uncle Ben tells a young Peter Parker, “With great power comes great responsibility.”
To truly grow and be worthy of the gifts given to them, every person should strive to help others move in a positive direction, meet essential needs and feel better at the end of a hard day.
Douglas Gerard Kleinsmith on tiny Actions
There are always opportunities to give back and share in the journey of others. Kleinsmith advises an unexpected smile, a ride to the doctor, a sympathetic card or an afternoon of companionship can spread joy and peace. Everything good does not carry a cost, and it’s important to reach out in all ways and without thoughts of a future return.
However, there is almost always a return. After giving back and lending a helping hand, it is easier to feel positive and keep connecting with people in the community and beyond. Realizing the needs of others leads to a greater sense of gratitude and, often, a desire to help in more meaningful ways.
Always embrace opportunities for good, and life will feel more and more like the blessing it already is