It seems the problem with my Favor Bank is that I keep making deposits, but can't withdraw at my leisure. That's a problem with all of this isn't it?

Thepoint of Tzedekah is also not to give back to those who hae given, but to be a giving person. Sort of an ancient version of "what goes around, comes around." Favor bank feels like the same kind of concept. There are times when we need to be takers more than givers and, as NOLA suggests, we need to understand that in order for the system to work, we must allow the givers to give. When we are able, we are instructed to give. We all have gifts to give and they may not be medical, professional, or financial. The opportunities are out there if we are just open to seeing them.

NOLA, I hear you and agree, lots of people find it very hard to accept help. Don't want to be indebted I think, even though we don't think of them that way.

Whatever the reason, I think you are on the right track. Look for places to help, then just do it. Find a gap, fill it. Drop by with baked goods, just because. Bring flowers from the garden, because you are thinking of how helpful they were to you. Have a big picnic for all the folks who helped you through surgery, after you are up and about. Not fancy, just social and fun for all. And, when that doesnt feel like enough, pay it forward. Help others in need, which is probably all your helpful friends want from you anyway. We all have our times for giving and times to receive, if your helpers are not needing something now, someone else is, and it'll all work out in the end. Or so I tell myself.