Practice Karma Yoga without Going to Class
Sunday, February 6th, 2011
Open up your heart this month and share it with others. You don’t need to sign up for a special workshop. All you need to do is reach out your hand and help those less fortunate than yourself. Maybe that means volunteering at the food pantry, helping at a retirement community or giving a few bucks to someone in need.
Before the Fiery Sun Fitness Thursday night beginner pilates/yoga class starts, I have some time to read different items around the church wall. A note that was written by a homeless man inspired me. He wrote the note thanking the church volunteers for their help getting him off the streets. It’s a bit common nowadays where someone who once had a job and house becomes homeless. Whatever the reason it happens and sometimes the homeless shelter is all they have. After reading the wonderful note, it made me think and open my mind. A few weeks pass and I went about my normal business of getting a coffee before heading to work. It was an icy, cold morning. There was a gentleman who was sitting outside on a chair telling me and a few others to be careful. He said, “I saw someone fall”. I replied, “Ok, thanks!” After I walked out with a $4 latte he asked for some money. I usually don’t give money but I gave him a few bucks.
I told one of my friends about my story and the dilemma that went through my mind, do I give money, a gift card to a grocery story or the apple in my purse. It was nice because she had a similar story too though she gave a little more money and provided a few suggestions. If you don’t feel comfortable giving away money to someone providing them with a piece of fruit, a sandwich or a gift card they can use at a local store. Share your story with us.