Helping When You Have Excess – Good, But Not Enough
Everyone knows the saying “a leaf on the tree covers the torn leaf” – it is admirable when those with means help those in need.
- When we have wealth, and we give – it is good.
- When we are well-off, and we share – it is good.
But this is only a part of kindness, because it is easier for those with means to help others.
Helping the Poor While Being Poor – Even More Noble
The saying “A piece of bread when hungry is better than a full meal when full” is very fitting in this context.
- The rich helping the poor – that is admirable.
- But when the poor still share with others who are poorer than they are – that is far more admirable.
Because when one is struggling themselves, yet still has the compassion to help others, that is true benevolence.
There is a saying in folklore:
“Even a small gift, given with a big heart, is worth more than a great wealth.”
It means even a little, when given with sincerity, has far more value.
The Tattered Leaf Covers the Tattered One – A Noble Sacrifice
It is good when someone with resources helps those in greater suffering.
But if you are also in difficulty, and still extend a helping hand, it is infinitely more noble.
- A leaf covering the torn one – that is normal and necessary.
- But when the tattered leaf still covers another tattered one, it is a sacrifice worthy of respect.
Surely, everyone has witnessed poor people helping each other.
- A street vendor shares their meal with someone else.
- A street food seller helps an elderly woman in need.
- Impoverished families still care for one another in times of hardship.
Such scenes are not rare in Vietnam.
It is in the hardest moments, that human kindness becomes most valuable.
Being there for one another in times of trouble, sharing even a little, is the most cherished thing.
Final Thought
- Helping others when you have the means is admirable, but helping when you are poor yourself is even more noble.
- Benevolence does not depend on wealth, but on the heart of the giver.
- In times of hardship, being there for each other is the most important thing.
Whether we have a lot or a little, remember that helping others is not just about material wealth, but about love, sharing, encouragement, and a helping hand.
Just being present with each other during tough times, that is already an invaluable gift.
This article is compiled based on a sermon by Venerable Thích Pháp Hoà
