Giving and Taking

Conventional wisdom suggests that we should seek what family therapists call "give and take" in all relationships in order to experience a happy and healthy relationship life. In other words, our overall relationship life should be in balance - our taking should be even with our giving. We therapists have joined the secular individualists and become great at helping people get what they "need" in life but we have trouble inspiring people to give. My advice is to discard the conventional wisdom and try giving without expectations of getting. It is hard. But the interpersonal rewards are there. Have faith in the universe and give freely to others. You will grow and prosper.