Every Day Deserves a Little . . . Give and Take

Song lyrics often stick in my brain, refusing to let go of the never-ending loop of melody and words. Like these:

You’ve got to give a little, take a little,
and let your poor heart break a little.
That’s the story of, that’s the glory of love.

Billy Hill wrote these words, and Benny Goodman recorded “The Glory of Love” in 1936. Many artists, including Rosemary Clooney, Otis Redding, and Paul McCartney. The song was the theme in Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, and Bette Midler performed a touching version in the movie Beaches.

What draws artists and us to the melody and words of this iconic song?

A bustling street scene in a charming town, with people walking along brick paths, quaint shops, and outdoor dining areas.

The message reminds me that life consists of thousands of give-and-takes. We build deep, life-long relationships with another person or within a family through reciprocity. I’ve used that word, but never looked closely at the definition.

Reciprocity implies mutual dependence, action, or influence; a mutual exchange of privileges (Merriam-Webster).

Two arched doorways of a rustic stone building feature people dining and conversing, with potted flowers enhancing the inviting atmosphere.

Think of those conversations where the give and take drew you into a deeper understanding of a topic and each other. The constant balancing of my needs and yours brings us to solid ground.

What if we all looked at building reciprocity, not only with those close to us, but with people who may not seem like us? How could we build a better world with just a little give and take?

Sing along

Words to Live By

True community is based on upon equality, mutuality, and reciprocity. It affirms the richness of individual diversity as well as the common human ties that bind us together.
—Pauli Murray

Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.
—Helen Keller