Reading the Cowherd Sutta illustrates how we need the sangha as a refuge and the practice of metta--as well as right effort, renunciation, right intention, equanimity and compassion--in order for us to come to safety.
"The greatest gift is the act of giving itself" Generosity is the seed--the foundation of spiritual development. It is the ground of compassion. It is a requisite of Liberation. Generosity--the practice of non-clinging--puts us directly in touch with the reality of interconnectedness. We give to help free ourselves. We give to help, bring joy to and to free others. And, we learn to receive graciously and with trust, just what is given..
