positivethinking

“A gift-giving virtue is the highest virtue. “
— Friedrich Nietzsche

Virtue is such an interesting word. It has six meanings in the unabridged dictionary. Morality and being a moral individual constitutes most of the meanings of the definition of a virtue. So, as humans, when our reaction is not to give, how can we make giving our virtue? Our natural desires are for safety, needs, socialization, which are really purely selfish needs, as they really only include ourselves. We ultimately want these things for others too, in our immediate family, and perhaps more wide-spread.

The biggest virtue that I teach to others, especially in my own classroom and with my own children is the golden rule, to treat others the way you want to be treated. Personally, I feel this is the beginning of treating others with a giving virtue. You’re showing them so much more when you treat them the way you want to be treated: love, respect, nurturing, and friendship. These are only a few of the gifts you give to others when you provide to them the good old golden rule. It’s something that we can give to others without selfishness.

Ultimately, giving to others feels excellent. It’s the best high that a person can have, when they see a smile on someoen else’s face because they were given something of incredible value to them. I strive for moments like that in my life. They are self-fulfilling gifts, and so much more. I feed off of these moments and use this feeling to propel me to continue to help others, to see a great smile.

What do you think virtue is? Can we as humans all give with virtue?