Generosity

What is the true meaning of generosity?

“Generosity is voluntary, unselfish giving of time, money, attention, or other resources; generous people are especially willing to share their resources with others. Although a generous gift can benefit the giver, it’s mainly intended to benefit the recipient, and there isn’t necessarily any expectation of a return.”

That statement comes directly from the Berkeley Well- Being Institute website. It speaks of something we sometimes don’t regularly see in society today.

Have you bumped into a rude person lately? No doubt! I had someone on the road recently pass me with an evil eye that accompanied the speed of the vehicle. Mind you I was already going 45 in a 40 MPH zone that is often patrolled by police radar. The look I received suggested I did not even belong on the road! I wanted to know what else was bothering that driver.

Generosity suggests giving someone space if needed, a pass for an error committed and maybe even help with a problem that they may have created themselves. It requires patience and a giving heart or temperament.

John Wesley, notable leader in Christianity, in particular the Methodist tradition, spoke these words:

“Do all the good you can, in all the ways you can, to all the souls you can, in every place you can, at all the times you can, with all the zeal you can, as long as ever you can.“

Those words happen to be posted on a pivotal wall in my church–the wall you see as you enter and depart the sanctuary. I see the words regularly and I think about them.

I want to be generous. I want to be giving and I want it to surprise others and have them offer no reward back other than a smile.

Does giving really make us happy?

“Studies tell us that neurons in the portion of the brain associated with a sense of satisfaction start firing when a person chooses to donate money, time or other resources. These results are a fascinating reminder of the intrinsic motivation that many people share to make the world a better place.”

The above statement comes in part from TrackingHappiness.com, a website that encourages individuals to be more proactive in their mental health seeking ways to feel a little more joy.

I prefer the notion of GIVING joy over seeking joy. I suspect giving will automatically lead to getting.

Don’t you think so, too?