When we give a gift to someone, it is an act of love for another, and ultimately for ourselves. But the nature of a gift is the selfless giving, and the absence of an expectation of return. A gift with expectation of return is no longer a gift – it becomes a transaction, even if not all parties in the transaction are aware of it.
Giving a gift with expectation of return will actually hurt the giver most. It will rob them of the joy of giving a pure, unencumbered gift. It will leave them open to resentment and anger if the ‘gift’ is somehow not repaid. If you are to do something for another, do it with joy and no expectation of return. Do it with the satisfaction that your gift, and the joy it brings the receiver, is reward enough. True gifts are given without expectation of return.
Ramen-san
