On Giving

Give like the old banyan,
which even in giving
of its whole self,
gives birth to roots
that hold sway, to give,
long after it has gone.

Give like the towering palm
which stands not in its own shadow,
breathing life into
its roots, leaves, fruits and wood,
only to give all of itself
to someone else in need.

Give like the young neem
which even in owning
its tart bitterness,
soothes and cleanses
weary, ailing wayfarers
of their unspoken misgivings.

Give of yourself
with love and joy -
the quiet, fragrant being-ness
that fulfills itself.
Give of yourself
with a deep knowing
that you are needed
only as yourself.
Give of yourself
so you keep
the wheel of life and love
moving and turning.
Give of yourself
freely and fully,
for in that sacred giving,
you learn how to live.