It is customary among certain branches of Buddhism that monks go out on a daily alms round to collect their food for the day. Obviously, the beggar receives money or food for the day. The beggar's gift is that the donor be given the opportunity to practice the Perfection of Generosity (Danaparamita). And for that, the donor should be grateful. The beggar is also grateful not just for the food or money they've received, but also for being able to give the opportunity for practice to the donor. How often is our daily life transactional rather than giving with no expectation of anything in return? Haengdal Citta gives the Dharma talk at One Mind Zen on American Thanksgiving Eve, November 23, 2022.
