Often, when we give of our time or money to a worth cause, we give ourselves a pat on the back for being so generous and virtuous. We tend to call such acts “charity.” But in keeping with Jewish tradition, Ira Riklis believes that it is a privilege to give. In this view, giving is an important part of living a spiritual life and is a way of restoring justice and fairness in the world. The “gifts” you give weren’t yours to begin with. They rightfully belonged to the recipients who were in need of them.
It’s not only important to give, it’s also important how you give. Jewish scholars have long recognized different levels of honor in how gifts are presented. When one gives grudgingly, or only when asked, that’s considered a lower form. Giving gladly, generously and anonymously in a way that helps those in need achieve self sufficiency so that they now longer need to rely on gifts is considered much more honorable. Ira Riklis gives with gratitude in his heart for having been granted the means to help others.