When stuff gets stolen

Stuff comes, and goes.

I've had favorite rings, and things that I've lost, or given away - and, a few times, things have been taken from me.
Such an incident happened yesterday - on a 20 degree F day. The main item was my very cosy, long, fur-lined, suede coast with a hood. I'd put it in a cubby in the weight room, and was only a few feet away - yet, it was gone an hour later! Also missing was my backpack - which included my ipod, cds, reading glasses, ID for another gym, and ... un knowns! I've been racking my brain to remember what else was in that bag. Was my spare set of keys in it? If so, I'm concerned about the security of my home, and, perhaps my car .
Creepy feeling - like roaches invading my home.
Yet, apart from feeling sad, a bit mad (mostly at myself), and very cold on my way home, I tried to imagine who it was who had taken my stuff. I would like to think it was someone who was cold, and desperate ... yet, I realize that there are people who make a comfortable living by stealing from others - and not all of those are doing so illegally!

I want to say: "you're welcome!" - though would have preferred being given the chance to do so.

However, I find myself looking at myself, and my generosity.
I could give more. I could give up little treats, and have more to give to needy causes (and there are SO many!!)
Next week the gym will look at the security cameras outtake, and, perhaps there will be an image that enables identification of the criminal.
The" criminal."
As if any one of us are
"innocents."
If I believed in karma, I could say that this is one of the payments due.
Yet, I came into this world free. I paid no price, and have (and continue to enjoy) a wealth of health, and happiness.

It's all a gift. I am free to give some of it away, (or, at least not hold resentment at having stuff taken) - even when it causes me to be cold, and a bit sad.
Thus, I say to the person who took my stuff: stay warm, and, please listen to the Buddhist talks on my ipod. it might do you good.