GLADYS WONG Energy Healer, Spiritual Counselor & Writer
First published: May 11, 2015
Giving and receiving can be a delicate balance between unspoken expectations and varied personal preferences. Whether a gift, a kind gesture, or a shared treat, these exchanges reflect our relationships and the dynamics within different social settings. A simple offering, like a delicious pastry, can unveil the complexities of human interaction and prompt introspective thoughts.
In today’s corporate world, it’s interesting to note that while many healthcare professionals excel at maintaining physical health, they often neglect emotional well-being. This is particularly evident when comparing the meticulous health routines of massage therapists with the emotional intelligence (or lack thereof) usually seen in office environments.
One day, early in my massage therapy career, I brought some Chinese egg custard tarts for my coworkers. What seemed like a kind gesture became an unexpected lesson in human interactions.
Knowing our receptionist loved sweets, I offered her a tart, only to have her recoil, saying, “Oh no! There is so much sugar and dairy in those things; this is the worst Chinese pastry! And almond cookies are the second worst.” [She had delivered ingredients to Chinese bakeries before becoming an office assistant.] When I asked if she didn’t want any, she simply said, “No.”
Another therapist took a bite and quipped, “Are you trying to make us fat?” as she brushed off the crumbs. One more coworker remarked, “I don’t like them, but I’ll eat one,” and later complained about the crumbs.
Feeling dejected, I was ready to throw the tarts away when the coworker stopped me and said, “Don’t waste food. I will take them home to my wife.”
To me, pastries are comfort food. They have nutritional value when enjoyed in moderation, but more importantly, the love and thought behind them count. Pastries make us happy.
I remember my girlfriend once brought chocolate chip cookies for the same coworkers. Those cookies were just as fattening, yet everyone devoured them and thanked her profusely despite the crumbs they left behind. This made me question why people rejected my egg tarts. Was it because they were polite to outsiders, or did they prefer Western cookies over Chinese pastries?
Interestingly, the medical staff at my other workplace were delighted when I brought the same treats. Though conscientious about nutrition, they enjoyed sharing and eating together, and their smiles always made me happy.
Often, people choose gifts they like and hope others will enjoy them, too. I cherish the joy of giving and seeing people’s reactions. Those moments make me laugh and stay with me.
I love people who give from their hearts. It’s not about the gift but the love and thoughtfulness behind it. First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “Since you get more joy out of giving joy to others, you should put a good deal of thought into the happiness you can give.”
Perhaps I had too many expectations, which ultimately led to disappointment. While it’s natural to hope others will appreciate our efforts, it’s important to remember that everyone has preferences and experiences. What truly matters is the joy and love we put into our actions, not just how they are received.
Pastries may be comfort food for many of us, but the true comfort comes from knowing we’ve tried to share something special, regardless of the outcome. So, let’s continue to share and enjoy these moments of happiness with an open heart and fewer expectations.
Do what you feel in your heart to be right – for you’ll be criticized anyway. ~ Eleanor Roosevelt
Photo credit: Craiyon.com
Energy Healing, Distance Healing, Spiritual Consultation, Spiritual Writing
Gladys Wong CMT MIM 