Vol. 58 No. 44 • May 30, 2017

We all know how nice it feels to receive gifts. Most of us have eventually reached an age when giving becomes just as thrilling as is receiving. I realize that the most beautiful thing in the world is to make someone happy. The joy of giving is more powerful than we could have possibly ever imagined.

What makes it so powerful? When we give, what we get in return is gratitude. Being a reason for someone’s smile is worth much more than money or anything material. This is not just a theory. There is scientific evidence to support the fact that giving is a way to personal growth and lasting happiness. It is as good for the giver as it is for those who receive. It gives the giver a purpose. When you have a purpose-driven life, you feel happy.

When you focus on giving to others you are less likely to worry about your own problems. You see a different perspective by stepping out of your own world and venturing into the world of other people. I remember the saying, “I walked and complaint that I had no shoes, till, I came across a man, who had no feet”. Your worries and challenges may not seem as significant when compared to other people’s problems.

So give freely. Give to organizations which are transparent and use your money for the right cause. I am proud that the Rotary Club of Bombay is one of them. 100% of the funds collected for charity go directly to the beneficiary. I congratulate RCB for collecting over US$ 4.6 lakh towards The Rotary Foundation, which is the highest donation ever, since its inception 88 years ago. For making this possible, I would like to thank all our members who have donated so generously and Rtn Ajay Piramal and Rtn Manoj Israni, who have become Arch Klump members. A big thank you to PP Rtn. Nirav Shah without whose efforts this would not have been possible. Fellow Rotarians, enjoy the joy of giving! By giving just a little of your time, money and love you could make the world a happier place!!