POINT OF FOCUS PROJECT

RECIPROCITY is our word to focus on this month.

Just like last month there is no message with this word, instead, you are to consider reciprocity in your own life and how you define it in different situations. How do you see reciprocity in your life?

Ideas to consider are:

The definition from the Oxford dictionary is:

the practice of exchanging things with others for mutual benefit, especially privileges granted by one country or organization to another.

A Google search for spiritual reciprocity yields:

Spiritual reciprocity is the idea that what we give out, we will receive back, and that our actions have consequences. It's a principle that's based on the idea that everything and everyone is connected through the spiritual dimension. 

Here are some examples of spiritual reciprocity: 

• The Golden Rule: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" 

• The tradition of Karma: If we intend, speak against, threaten, or commit injury to another, harm will fall upon us and on those with whom we associate 

• Scripture: "A man reaps what he sows" (Gal. 6:7b) and "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy" (Mat. 5:7) 

Reciprocity can also apply to our relationship with nature. For example, when we take a flower or food from the ground, we should take it as if it is a gift for us. 

Reciprocity is deeply rooted in human nature. It represents our innate inclination to respond to gestures of goodwill with equivalent or even magnified positive actions.