Indeed. I tithe. It’s a spiritual practice. I’m devoted to tithing and it has transformed my relationship with money in ways that hadn’t happened by doing other things.
I use the KISS — Keep-It-Simple-Sweetheart — approach. Ten percent (or more) of all the money I receive is passed along to wherever I have received inspiration, spiritual food, sustenance, movement forward on my spiritual path, etc.
I do not…
• Tithe to need. (I give to need, and that’s separate from and additional to tithing.)
• Dilly dally. (I keep an active tithing practice, usually tithing weekly or two weeks at the very most.)
• Judge where the inspiration is coming from. (If I get a clear “hit” that spiritual inspiration has come from a particular source, that is where the money goes. No shit no kidding. No questions asked.)
• Have an agenda about what will be done with the money. Once it leaves my hands all attachments to it are gone.
I do…
• Tithe consistently. (Religiously, you might say. Since May 19, 2008.)
• Pay very close attention to every penny that enters my life. (This equals big gratitude and presence with the money that comes my way, creating a very healthy relationship with that money.)
• Pay very close attention to where my inspiration is coming from. (Creating the awareness of and appreciation for the lessons I am being provided. It helps me to stay present with and attentive to my spiritual practice.)
• Get surprised every once in a while by what happens as that money circulates out into the world. How it is received (or not). The connections it creates. It allows that money to become very energetic and alive.
When I first began tithing it was the only stone that was left unturned in a long journey of cultivating a healthy relationship with money. I was beyond reluctant and frankly terrified. I was just barely scraping by and there wasn’t any extra, never mind ten percent extra. I began because it was the only thing left and I knew there must be something to it for me. It required a leap of faith. It required that I bring that faith to money. It helps me to stay spiritual with money. Tithing has also proven to me that I am always provided for. My needs are met. The more I let go the more I receive — in myriad ways. That’s why…I tithe. I’m a tither. Yes, I tithe.
Amazing…
Roy,
I’m honored that you take the time to stop by to witness my fledgling efforts. Thank you…
Happy day,
Kerry
Hey lady K,
I heard about it. It’s in our culture- more corectly in the bible- even wheמ you bake the bread for Shabat you tithe, – what if you and your partner have your acounts together and only one of you want to tithe? i would love to hear your input on that.
love T
Hi Tamar!
Thanks for stopping by — and great question!
I think of it this way. It is like any other financial decision. Or any decision for that matter. Partners may not be in agreement. When there is a difference of opinion I think it’s a good idea to just have the discussion. Money discussions included.
I believe that our money decisions should be made from a perspective that honors our individual values. And what if values differ within a partnership? Ultimately I aim to get creative and co-create a solution that respects and honors both sides.
Perhaps in this case it is about discussing why this feels important. And what makes it a values-honoring endeavor. Get all the feelings out into the open so you can see what you’re dealing with. See if there is any room for movement. Then aim for a solution.
And what if there is no room for movement? I know that before I was ready, really ready to commit to tithing, there was NO moving me. I wasn’t going to do it. Ever. (Ha! That sure has changed.) One suggestion I’ve heard when partners just do not agree on tithing is to determine together what part of the accounts are “yours” and to then tithe on that part of the money. (This could be a really interesting conversation! Rich territory that may feel awkward at first, but will surely yield great insight into the relationship with money for the individuals and the partnership.)
The bottom line is to talk about the money. I hope this is helpful…
Happy day,
Kerry
Thanks!
You’re welcome Tamar.