The object of helping others should be to enable them to help themselves.
Do we help friends by always agreeing with them? We can really benefit them more by being objective. Do we help children or adults by doing for them what they need to learn to do for themselves?
We never help by pitying, sympathizing, or humoring. We do the most for others by recognizing the spark of divinity that indwells them—by seeing them in the light of Truth as free, happy, prosperous beings—as children of a benevolent, loving God.
There are times when giving material help is good and necessary, but often it is far better to inspire a person to work rather than offering a handout. Let us not be guilty of insulting our spiritual brothers and sisters. Give others a greater sense of dignity by leading them to the exciting discovery of their own abilities.
Let us pray: “Lord, guide me to say the most uplifting word, to take the most helpful action, and to give the perfect gift of love as I meet others this day. Amen.”