"Give thanks for a little,
                                     and you will find a lot "
                                                               -The Hausa of Nigeria

It is amazing how being kind to others radiates joy back into our lives. You may have read in biblical scriptures where the rewards to you are "sevenfold."  But how does being gracious bring us happiness?  And how does our happiness increase by being grateful?

Give to others, with the innocence of a child, and you'll awaken the inner joy of your youth.

Have you noticed when you have done something for someone else, or have given a gift to someone else (for example, a compliment, a card, a present), that you imediately feel good?  Where is this feeling originating from?   You're feeling the energy that the person you gave the gift to is radiating.  You're feeling their energy.  Doesn't that feel great?  Here's another fact that you may not be aware of.  Anyone who see's you give the gift also gains from your energy of giving.  Just seeing you give to another person lifts others feelings in the immediate vicinity.  And those observers also radiate happiness back to you.

      "We make a living by what we get.
                       We make a life by what we give."
                                                            - Winston Churchill

By making someone's day a bit better, that positive energy continues on like a ripple in a pond outwards helping others throughout the day.  And many times without realizing it, that positive energy is being reflected back to you- the gracious giver. You have begun to create a positive impression of yourself in their mind which will lead to positive, happy feelings whenever your paths cross. And remember the observers? They too have altered their feelings towards you.

You are experiencing the "Law of Reprocity."

The Law of Reprocity states: " When you give to others, they in turn feel obligated to return the favor."   Therefore, if you want happiness, give happiness to others; if you want to be appreciated, appreciate others; if you desire material possessions, help others to achieve what they desire. Give freely.  Give to others, wanting nothing in return, and everything you desire will come back to you.

Be thankful.  Be gracious.  Be happy.

"Blessed are those who can give without remembering, and take without forgetting."
                                   -Princess Elizabeth, Asquith Bibesco