My model is to give freely in the latter category, without expectation of balance, but to receive only in the former category, being careful to avoid becoming a net burden on others.

If I remember it correctly, Pat's college's motto is apropo:
"Non ministrari, sed ministrae", or "not to be helped, but to help others" as an overall ideal. Nonetheless, life is imperfect, and sometimes I find myself in a bind.

I give to others as an act of service, as a way of expressing love. But that only works if someone actually needs help, and I strive to avoid needing help.