Receiving (believing is receiving or receiving is believing)

Is it really better to give than to receive?

My mom’s celebration of life happened this week and while it was difficult on many levels, there were also many, many gifts.

I caught myself fretting about how the program looked, would we have room for additional people at the luncheon, what I should say in her eulogy. 

What should I share? What will people think? Will it be good enough?

I realized I was in full “execution” mode; thinking I had to do it all myself.

Nothing could be further from the truth.

I asked for what I needed.

I asked my kids to help me put together a slide show of photos and music for the service.

I asked my family to stand with me as I shared my memories.

I released the need to scurry around to make sure everything was being done “right” and allowed space for the funeral director to do his job.

(What do I know about the process of funerals anyway? Isn’t it funny how our brains tell us we should know everything?!)

I asked.

And I received – tenfold.

The day turned out beautifully.

I shared from my heart.

My family enveloped me with care, support and love. 

I allowed myself to be the receiver rather than the giver.

It felt amazing. 

My heart was so full of love and gratitude.

What about you?

Are you someone who is always giving?

Do you take pride in being the “go to” when something needs to get done?

Have you forgotten to ask for what you need – or even know what that is?

As humans it feels better to be in action – like we’re doing something instead of just sitting around.

I get it. 

I used to believe that, too.

As a recovering perfectionist, I now know to allow space for any “outside the plan” happenings. 

I know I’m not the only one that can get things done.

I know it’s OK to allow myself to receive rather than always give.

Tuning in to my inner wisdom allows me to be present and hear my own answers.

It didn’t come naturally for me. I had to learn how to find that voice.

You can do the same.

So to answer the question: Is it better to give than to receive?

I say it’s best to do both.

PS-Do you struggle with receiving? Are you the first one to dismiss your accomplishments or give a disclaimer when someone compliments you? I get it and you do have choices. Schedule a complimentary call with me today. It’s your first step to becoming a receiver.