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Do not stand on a high pedestal and take 5 cents in your…

“Do not stand on a high pedestal and take 5 cents in your hand and say, here, my poor man, but be grateful that the poor man is there, so by making a gift to him you are able to help yourself.It is not the reciever that is blessed, but it is the giver.Be thankful that you are allowed to exercise…” quote by Swami Vivekananda
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“Do not stand on a high pedestal and take 5 cents in your hand and say, here, my poor man, but be grateful that the poor man is there, so by making a gift to him you are able to help yourself.It is not the reciever that is blessed, but it is the giver.Be thankful that you are allowed to exercise your power of benevolence and mercy in the world, and thus become pure and perfect.”

Swami Vivekananda

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The passage teaches that true generosity blesses the giver more than the receiver, emphasizing gratitude and the moral power of giving.

In simple terms: Giving benefits the giver, not just the receiver.

Key Takeaway

Practice giving with gratitude to enrich yourself.

Themes

generosity gratitude spirituality ethics self‑growth

Mood

inspirational reflective spiritual

Type

ethical philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • charitable acts
  • daily kindness
  • volunteering
  • mindful giving
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

karma moral philosophy self‑actualization

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does giving change your sense of self?
  • What limits your ability to give freely?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on self‑benefit may overlook the receiver’s needs.

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