Defining generosity?

Someone who read my blog from yesterday before it was posted, asked me: “But what’s the meaning of generosity?” and I thought to myself, “What a great question!” So I went back to the definition of generosity and found that “Generosity is the voluntary and selfless act of giving to others, whether it be time, resources, compassion, or kindness.” 

Quite a program as you can see, that encompasses actions like material giving, namely things like money, food, clothes, or other resources to those in need. Then there’s the time we can offer by volunteering at an association, mentoring a child, or helping a neighbor. Sharing knowledge, expertise and skills also counts. 

Included also is all kinds of emotional support, like lending a listening ear, providing comfort, and showing empathy to someone who needs it. Part of generosity are those small gestures of kindness, like holding a door open, offering a helping hand, or simply being welcoming or friendly. 

These days we could also include environmental actions like protecting the planet for future generations, social justice by advocating for equity, inclusion and fairness for all. Ultimately, generosity is about putting the needs of others before our own and contributing to the well-being of our communities and the world around us.

At the end of that long list that same person asked me, “That’s a lot of stuff, but you know what’s missing?” I replied, “No, tell me?”. I heard: “To succeed with that definition, we need to quit being so stingy!” I responded: “You’ve got a point!”