Branches extend from a core, connected and informed by an intricate network of roots.
The latter taking on the caring responsibility, that is the one to collect and nurture.
Grounded in this metabolic flow providing stability and growth, is the gift of fruition.
A reaching hand, an open palm presented with both intention and vulnerability.
While at first glance, seemingly unambiguous, the gesture is coded and informed by a multitude of different experiences and emotions seeking to be conveyed to a recipient.
An act that is universal yet unique in its every execution.
According to the laws of physics, for each force acting in a certain direction there exists another one acting in the opposite direction. An equilibrium is in place if the counteracting forces are equal in magnitude. In the context of exchange, we have learned to apply similar concepts to rationalize the balance between what we give versus what we receive. A logical assessment of a situation is made. In doing so, we accept the abstract picture, in which the actions of giving and receiving are painted as an inseparable pair of seemingly neutral opposites, one action requiring the other in some form.
However, upon decoupling this pair, giving on its own reveals a far more intricate nature, offering to be explored. As such the language of giving takes on a multitude of forms, differing in the emotions driving this gesture, the relationship between the giver and those who receive and the means by which we choose to give. Contextualized through the peculiarities of culture and personal experience, it becomes evident that giving is neither quantifiable nor rigid.
Why do we extend ourselves to others through giving?What is It that we give?
