Image via WikipediaWhen you consider definitions of words and even actions and interactions of people comparing 'help' and a 'gift' are shown to be a study into the dynamics of power. If you give a gift it would be something out of kindness but could also be a way of showing your wealth and perhaps intimidating the recipient. I am not saying this is always the case but someone who receives help from another or an organisation already admits a 'weakness' of a kind as they are the ones in need of assistance. People should (I hope) seek help when they need it but this is not the kind of power dynamic I am speaking about. The person who receives help will immediately in their mind think less of themselves, as if they have failed. This puts them in the weaker position but with help disguised as a 'gift' this blow to the self-esteem is muted somewhat by good social discourse.
Manners are a sensitive awareness of the feelings of others. If you have that awareness, you have good manners, no matter which fork you use. ~Emily Post
So in short answer to this post, yes, helping can be a gift. A longer answer depends on the intention of the gift and the empathy of the gift giver or the person offering assistance. Even today I was asked for directions to a post office, I gave the directions, quick thank you and off he went. Now, was I helping or are directions the 'gift' that has been given. I am of the opinion it is just helping and basic manners. Others may see it as an effort to go out of the way and that it is a gift. I would still disagree, but hey, we're all entitled to opinions. I am starting to sound a bit 'new age' but I am not really aiming this experiment and blog into anything of a belief. Perhaps the belief behind it is:
James 2:17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.
Biblical or not it is sound advice for anyone. With this in mind I should post later on the link between gift economies and religion. I hope you have enjoyed this discussion and I hope to have more for all of you soon.
-KJ
A great site with a great message.
ReplyDeleteA gift does not strictly have to be a monetary one. Volunteering your time is a great way to give back. The organization I work for could not survive and operate without the work and dedications of it volunteers. It can be a fun and rewarding experience too where both parties gain.