Actually, sacrifice originally referred to the literal process, as in sacrificing animals or people, before it began to acquire use in metaphor. Words change over time; change in itself is not indicative of corruption. That many now use it to refer to altruism or asceticism is neither inherently good or bad.

You’re right. If you sacrifice something, you’re doing it because you’re at least hoping to gain something from it.

For example: sacrifices made by priests to gods were made to appease the god, keep a good relationship with the god, or beg for a good harvest or rain.

If you sacrifice some extra time on your job, it’s probably because you want a raise or a promotion. Or maybe you want to keep your job, which is also a good reason to sacrifice some time.

Some companies asked (last year, in the Netherlands) for people to sacrifice their yearly raise. In turn, the company wouldn’t fire people because of the bad economy. So in this case, you’re sacrificing money (the raise) to reduce the risk of losing your job; or to reduce the risk of your colleagues losing their job.

Sacrificing your smoking habit is for your health.
You could even sacrifice something because you hope to get spiritual growth. Or you could sacrifice some money to charities to help society as a whole (and to feel better about yourself).

There is always a goal when you’re sacrificing. Of course, the goal is not always reached.

If there is nothing to be gained, anyway, I don’t think you can call it sacrificing. Words like “losing” or “giving up” come to mind.

Only The King lives the longest in a game of sacrificial Chess…plus entitles himself to the women, land, children, estates, and rich/poor workers of the fallen brethren on both sides of the map. The only Winners (only on Earth and not in Heaven) are the ones in Power who have taken it by influencing someone else’s mentality to sacrifice.

Listening to your heart and you will find the courage to fight against your Kings and their games.

I’ve always sacrificed utility for satisfaction later on life, I’ll never forego utility if there is no benefit to it. Great post, like the double plus thinking.

Very interesting concept. Whenever I sacrifice something worthwhile I always want something in return in the future, that is the whole reason behind sacrifice. Thanks for the mental clarity post Jacob.

Any sacrifice must be worthy of reward before you expect it. I make minor sacrifices all the time. As an example allowing another ahead of me thus sacrificing my time but I don’t expect anything for it. It is a personal sacrifice based on kindness. If I sacrifice extravagance in order to reach my financial goals to support my early retirement then I expect the reward of financial freedom. It is the sacrifice of instant short-term gratification based on logic. Your post is definitely thought provoking.