The joy of sharing

For human beings, however possessive and selfish by nature they may be, there still exists in their heart a soft corner for the other creations of nature. They like to feed the animals and watch them grow strong and healthy. They take pleasure in nurturing plants and love to see them bloom beautifully. Is it not unfortunate that the same people, when they find a fellow human in despair and agony, prefer to turn a blind eye? They think several times before deciding, reluctantly, to lend a helping hand to the sufferer.

The disparity between the "haves" and the "have nots" cannot be whisked away or eliminated completely. Nevertheless, empathy for the poor and the needy could help mitigate their sufferings to some extent. Even an inanimate substance like water rushes to reduce the difference in its level.

We human beings, with a little sincerity in our efforts, could easily bring about a change in the lives of the less fortunate. By curtailing even a part of our frivolous expenditure and donating that amount to a charitable cause, we could help in narrowing the gap between the rich and the needy. Not only will this bring the donor a sense of satisfaction, but it will also pave the way for the restoration of peace and harmony in our society, that is plagued by increasing incidents of violence and anarchy.

M. VISWANATHAN

Karawang, West Java