It is often said there is no such thing and I would agree.
It is also said that one should give expecting nothing in return. To which I also agree.
The two are two parts of the same thing.
This is how I have come to understand the operations of both these statements.
1. When I give there is an exchange.
There is ALWAYS something I get in response to my giving.
ALWAYS
Without fail,
Without question,
I receive.
2. The truth is, I receive BEFORE I give.
Yes... that is correct.
Whether it is the joy of helping someone or a stroke of the ego. I get something before I give anything.
It is just that simple.
If I already get something that is satisfying, then nothing more is expected... after the giving is done.
I already got what I want so I am free to give as much as that allows.
Beyond that is where frustration, regret and unmet expectation dwell.
Or so I have found.
There is a Balance maintained
Receive: Give
Give: Receive
This feels like law to me.
But to be sure...
Try it...
Test it for yourselves.