I noticed yesterday at daybreak that the winter dew was noticeable only in few rose bushes. The last two photographs above show scanty dew on the leaves.
It reminded me of the interface between giving and receiving. All plants were given the dew, only some plants seem to have received them to cover their leaves in the comfort of the dew.
The two Bulbuls came to the chilly plant for their feed. Only one was ready to receive chilly as its feed. The other Bulbul did not even attempt to taste it!
In the cultural practice which people follow, where Anna and I live I receive a quick response to a 'Thank you' expressed, a stiff and instant 'Don't mention'!
I have reflected on this. Why is that most people do not 'take' the gift of appreciation or compliment when offered !
Some plants received the dew and 'took' it to its benefit. Other plants did not retain the dew drops although given!
The taking process to receive is an act of humility, openness and gratefulness!
The Bulbul who rejected the chilly as its feed exercised its choice and decided for itself, according to its inclination. The other Bulbul who had the chilly in its beak looked ready to take what was offered.
I made a mental journey of my own nature in this context. Do I take what is offered ! Do I receive graciously and thankfully!
I was carrying two bags after the shopping and waiting for the traffic to stop to cross the road yesterday. One young man offered to help me. My first response was, 'I can manage'! That was when I remembered the plants, which did not have the cover of the dew on them at day break. To receive an offer, I need to take it as a gift of mindfulness ! When I took his act of goodwill and gave him the bags, I realised how fulfilled that person felt. He told me that he was an engineering student. He has often seen his father offering to help elderly people!
The giving, taking and receiving bring a relational dimension which is upbuilding!
M.C.Mathew(text and photo)
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