The Pali term “dana” comes from the Sanskrit daan, which can be understood as generosity and reciprocity. Its roots and potential run deep.
In Indian culture, practices to spiritual awareness and deep perspective have a long history. In that context, dana was offered to a teacher or guru unceremoniously. It may have been a simple rupee, a flower, an offering of food or of abundant support, depending on the particular circumstances and relationship.
As a practice, dana represents interdependence and mutual appreciation. It expresses gratitude for all that we receive, and unlike the expectation of a fee, it invites us to offer generosity in a way that reflects ease and well being.
In the West, giving or “donating” can be weighed down with hidden concerns about obligation, virtue, duty, or ego. Stress can arise about our donation being sufficient, being judged favorably or unfavorably, giving too 
much or too little. Often given anonymously, dana avoids that confusion. As a practice, it allows us to give easily, without burden.
Like meditation, the practice of dana lets us look quietly at how we are feeling and responding to life, and it offers insight into our emotional and psychological states. We see where trust, gratitude, and happiness motivate us, where practical realities and commitments serve as guidelines, and where judgement and fear influence us. We notice when ego and clinging play a part and how an imagined unworthiness can limit us.
Approaching reciprocity and generosity as a practice, we can proceed with balance, being kind to ourselves and appreciative of those around us in appropriate ways. Dana respects the practical needs of all and honors the giving and receiving that flows between hearts.
Dana can be as simple as offering water to a flower. A beautiful example is the Islamic practice of sadaqah, which has been described as “the heart being truthful to itself.” it can illuminate how we navigate the terrain of self and other, generosity, responsibility, gratitude, and trust. No rights or wrongs, just the opportunity to practice.
From our first in-breath to our final exhale, life is an endless flow of giving and receiving. Like water flowing in its endless cycle, the spirit and practice of dana enriches our lives. Teachings and practices that invite us to live in accord with timeless wisdom have always been freely shared without expectation. As the natural response to that which is priceless, dana blooms in that generous field.