Sometimes it’s called giving back, but to some it’s paying forward. Whichever the case maybe, both or either acts indicate a feeling of selflessness and good vibrations wanting to find a place in another heart, another soul.

Filipinos are wont to say “May utang na loob” or some deep gratitude for a good act one has done for someone else, and the recipient now wanting to share the feeling with yet another person. Funny though how we should not expect the same people we give help to, to be the same ones to return the favor to us. But some kindred soul soon pops up into our life from out of nowhere and gives us something in kind, or even just a good pat on the back, a little push or encouragement when we are down. Or someone just comes into our life with a present, unexpected, but pure and simple.

As persons or as companies, everyone wants to give back. It feels good and it is human nature. If we choose to forget who has done us good, and out of pride we are embarrassed to even look back, we can go ahead and give the good vibes to someone else. Pay it forward. Give back. Whichever it is, it feels good.

Now, comes the next question. How do we give back? Is it through money, donations, old clothes, stuff we no longer need? Or do we give of ourselves? Is it not more meaningful to give of one’s time, of one’s experience , of one’s knowledge? Not only has it more meaning, it also is priceless.

Find your purpose by looking into your heart. Who helped you when you were starting? Who gave you your first break? Who helped you when you were down? These people have their names etched in your heart. If you wish to return the favor, or “tumanaw ng utang na loob” the best is to be kinder to someone else. And when your patron learns about it, he or she will have that priceless smile on his/her face.

Another way is to give of your time. Volunteer for causes you believe in. Offer your time to teach others. It does not remove anything from you. But it adds a wealth of knowledge to someone else.

Yet another way is to give back through a simple act of kindness. Whoever you extend an act of kindness to will surely pay it forward. Then it will be a better world.