On a Way of Life

5 June 2019

Life contains large circles, patterns unseen till they close: often empowered by birth and death. Cycles of giving and taking. Paul recalls a saying, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ The word for ‘blessed’ might be ‘happy’ or ‘fortunate’: a state of honour and bliss like that of the gods. In antiquity, benefactors gave everything, with consequent obligations. Who gives? Those with resources. Who receives? The others. The dead receive eulogies; the sick, care; children, guidance and, we hope, protection. Are they then blessed?

There are obvious circles, enclosing a life. And secret circles, based in meaning. The young singer sings for her grandmother’s death; and much later for her aunt when herself gravely ill. She gives from her strength and then from her weakness: a hidden circle, unforeseen. Paul didn’t wish to receive silver or gold, but to give of his own resources. Lazarus received only from the dogs, who licked his wounds. A way of life holds discernments: when and what to give and receive. Giving can be a spiritual practice; receiving a spiritual clarity. Receiving is not passive. It may require effort. As a way of life, it closes a circle.