#414: SPOTLIGHT: Neeru Gang
#414: Neeru Garg
January 21, 2025
A Backbeat of Community
Question for Neeru:
Does one particular travel experience come to mind (whether travel for work or vacation) that had a substantial and LASTING impact on your life?
Neeru's Response:
Growing up, my brother and I accompanied my dad every Tuesday evening to distribute food to people sitting outside the temple. Sometimes it was loaves of bread, and other times it was dozens of bananas. The vendor knew our routine and, before 4 p.m., would deliver the donation items to our house so they were ready by the time my dad returned from work. Thus, “giving” and “sharing” have always been familiar to me, and I grew up feeling comfortable and conscious of the emotions tied to them.
However, an experience I had introduced me to a completely new feeling. In 2016, our family traveled to Prague. One sunny and warm day, while out for a walk, I spotted a grocery store and decided to explore it out of curiosity about European grocery stores. I went in with two of our younger kids and noticed a fresh orange juice machine. I bought three bottles of orange juice—one for each of my children.
As I was leaving the store, I saw a woman sitting outside, begging. I’m not sure what came over me, but I told my six-year-old son to take one of the bottles and give it to her. I still vividly remember her smile as she opened the bottle immediately and drank it. No words were exchanged, but the smiles we shared spoke more than a thousand words. That moment was the first time I realized that giving without expectation or planning is the most satisfying and soul-warming act. Whether it’s a kind word, an unexpected smile, or a bottle of juice, the most meaningful part is the connection you build through that spontaneity.
Soon after, I had another epiphany. I was reading a fable about a king who invited everyone in his kingdom to a feast on his birthday. During the feast, as he served food, he kept looking at people’s feet. Everyone was puzzled by his behavior. When asked about it, the king explained that he did not want to judge anyone by their appearance or clothing, as it might lead to bias in how he served them.
These moments taught me important lessons about giving. I realized that true giving comes without arbitration, expectation, or judgment. It is an act best done without overthinking or reasoning, as introducing process or planning can strip away the selflessness and satisfaction that make the act so meaningful.
I suspect Neeru would love all direct responses from you. I find it incredibly encouraging when I hear from any of you after I share my thoughts. It is powerful for me. I assume many others have a similar experience. So here is Neeru's email… pip
Amanda's thought…
Neeru, I am constantly inspired by your thoughtfulness and generosity towards others. I often notice that after being in your presence and your kind energy, I go about the rest of my day feeling more lightness and optimism. I truly mean that. And I am touched by your story here. Thank you for sharing this piece of you and this idea of spontaneous giving. I love that intention and it reminds me of the great impact a handful of complete and total strangers have had on me. Thank you, Neeru.
- AP
