CONTRIBUTION Vs. SACRIFICE

Contribution and Sacrifice are two words which are often used interchangeably by people.  There is a big difference between Sacrifice and Contribution.  We use the word Sacrifice when it is actually contribution and vice versa.

A mother sacrifices her sleep and looks after the baby throughout the day and the night and that is a Sacrifice.  A husband helps his wife by cutting vegetables and doing dish washing once in a while and that is a contribution made towards the household chores.

We contribute a lot in the work place, at home, in the society as it is the collective contribution of all people involved in the work place or home or society that helps in the overall development.  We have to continue to contribute in whatever way possible and make the requisite efforts for the same.  Thus contribution is a continuous process and requires effort.  It is a disciplined approach which will help in making continuous contribution in whatever we pursue.  Contribution is made as part of the requirements or with an expectation in return.

Sacrifice calls for a very big heart and selflessness.  Sacrifice sometimes leads to suffering but the suffering is only for one person through which there is benefit for several others.  Sacrifice takes us to the highest level in life and helps us to realise ourselves and takes us closer to God.  There are thousands of soldiers who are guarding the Country all the time and are willing to sacrifice their sleep, timely food and sometimes they sacrifice their lives for the nation.

Contribution is made by all of us but Sacrifice is made only by a few.  Contribution entirely depends on the ability and availability but Sacrifice is a result of a mental composure which very few people are able to achieve.

I have contributed a lot in life and hope to achieve the mental composure to do some sacrifices in life.

Seasons' Greetings and my best wishes for a very happy and prosperous New Year to all my readers.

T.P.Anand
Dubai, U.A.E.
26th December 2012