On Doing Good for Others

Here is a quote from the ancient Buddhist scripture called the Khuddaka Patha that really resonates with me. The writing is Buddhist, but the sentiment is universal:

A man buries a treasure in a deep pit, thinking: "It will be useful in time of need, or if the king is displeased with me, or if I am robbed or fall into debt, or if food is scarce, or if bad luck befalls me."

But all this treasure may not profit the owner at all, for he may forget where he hid it, or goblins may steal it, or his enemies or even his kinsmen may take it when he is not on his guard.

But by charity, goodness, restraint and self-control man and woman alike can store up a well-hidden treasure - a treasure which cannot be given to others, and which robbers cannot steal. A wise man should do good - that is the treasure which will not leave him.

Quoted from The Wonder that Was India, by A.L. Basham, p. 287