Is it better to give than to receive?

But, what about those who give in order to receive recognition?

You know the type. They give generously but demand a shout out for their honorable deed in a public way. Whether it's an individual, institution or business it happens all of the time. They want credit for their good deed, a pat on the back for being a good citizen and a wink and a nod from a passerby.

Don't get me wrong, I know the anonymous giver still exists. I know that giving for the sake of giving is not a dead notion. Many individuals, businesses and institutions give generously and refuse credit of any kind.

Many of you will do wonderful deeds and be completely satisfied with receiving little or no recognition at all. These givers are the ones that I am most gracious for. It is this group of unconditional gift givers who truly know that it is better to give than to receive.

Then there are also the givers who are credited through other means than their own. Someone may slip a thank you or nod to a giver who would rather remain anonymous. Oops...I'm sure it happens all of the time.

But, being on the receiving end usually brings out the thankfulness in everyone. And it should. In my book, being thankful will never go out of style. I'm grateful to a door being held open, words of encouragement (especially on a bad day), and the knock of spring on winter's harsh door.

In my opinion, a heartfelt thank you is usually the best kind to give or receive.

But, if ever a time in my life comes when I am able to give so generously may I also give unconditionally. Until then it's the thought that matters, right?

And with that said, I'll save that subject for a new day.