In the Buddhist culture, the monks go around the town with their begging bowls to be fed by the town's people. They graciously accept any offering that is made. Why? The monks understand the concept of emotional investments -- gracious receiving. The monks allow the town's people to feel a sense of true giving. This in turn increases the community's sense of altruism, self-esteem, and soul authenticity. The people feel good about giving. They give because they are grateful to the monks for the services that they provide. The monks bring a sense of peace and compassion to the community. The people gratefully repay the monks by offering food. Giving is a concept of emotionally investing in others, but so is receiving. When you graciously receive from others, you are allowing them to feel good about themselves. Gracious receiving is the gift of self-esteem to the giver.