I've come to notice more and more with today's time that we are starting to loose focus on those who matter around us. When I look through a window at a restaurant, I no longer see people conversing, but rather staring blankly at their phone screens. Or when I walk around town with friends, conversations die quickly so they can focus on what filter to use on their "selfie." We are becoming too selfish within our acts, and missing out on what life can truly give to us.
Why be selfless? Well, as Christians we are called to live a life in Christ. Christ was completely selfless, He allowed Himself to be mocked and crucified, all for the love of His children. He has emptied Himself to become human and did not regard Himself in equality with the Father. Jesus submitted His will to that of the Father and calls us to do the same.
Living a lifestyle of always living around your own bubble will never be fulfilling and it will keep you always wanting more, rather than being happy with where you are. I've come to find that the most miserable people are the ones who are always obsessing over themselves, while the most joyful people have such a gentle heart and are more than eager to lose themselves in the service of others.
Here is what I've come to know by living a selfless lifestyle and how that can shape those around you for the better as well.
Don't become blind to beauty
Over time, I've realized that selfish people can't find the beauty of love, no matter how many colors you paint out for them.They can't comprehend why there is joy in serving another person and not expecting anything back in return. Living a selfless lifestyle seems foolish in their eyes. Don't let yourself become blind to all the kindness around you and the kindness you can give to others.
Delight in their joys
If we were to open our eyes and see the beauty that surrounds us, we could delight in the ones around us and their happiness. Knowing when to put someone else before you takes a huge act of kindness, not an act of business. It is ultimately worth so much in the end.
Be a fountain, not a drain
By living a selfless life, you should always be kind to those around you and not putting down the ones who anger you. Spreading the joy and sharing the love is positive on both sides of the spectrum and will ultimately let you live a selfless lifestyle.
He must increase, I must decrease
What do we value more? Self possession and all what the earthly world offers to us, or Christ? We must empty ourselves of selfishness, and of always thinking "What's in it for me?" and rather fill ourselves with God's love for us become His hands and feet to live out that love. Through God's love, we can then love others, and there is no greater love than that.
A life lived for others is worth living
By recognizing the little wonders of life in front of us, and learning to share them and give them freely, you can life a happy life. As we let our light shine through our talents and accomplishments, we are unconsciously giving others permission to do the same around us.
A little kindness can go a long way in everyone's life, it's one of the greatest gifts you could ever bestow upon someone else. If someone is in need, lend them a helping hand without any expectations in return. Living selflessly is the act of focusing on others in a way that shows kindness and tender actions. However, the true definition of a selfless giver starts with you.
