Imagine you are offered skybox tickets to an exclusive event.
Is it simply a gesture of goodwill — or something more complicated?
When you’re unsure whether something is a gift, a donation, or a bribe, try this simple test:
Ask the gift itself.
If the gift could speak, what would it say?
- “I’m given freely, with no strings attached.” → Gift.
- “I’m supporting a cause you already believe in.” → Donation.
- “I’m expecting something in return.” → Bribe.
It’s a simple trick — but a powerful one.
The Danish Bog People were willing victims, sacrificed to appease the ancient pagan gods and goddesses and to ensure fertility and prosperity for the year ahead.
Their final words were:
“I am a gift”
Ask the gift. Listen carefully. Then you’ll know.
Have you ever found yourself in a similar situation (the skybox example, not the human sacrifice?)