Generosity
Give without expecting anything in return.
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There is always more. Even if everything is given, there is still life, and the flow of existence has a way of filling the void, so there can be compassionate giving next time. There's always the chance to give as existence constantly unfolds.
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We live in a culture that places a monetary value on almost everything, tangible and intangible, including time. How can we be generous without appearing to devalue the gift? How can we be generous without appearing foolish, by not asking for anything in return? How can we help ourselves be more joyful in giving? How can we relieve the receiver of any feeling that they need to "pay" for our generosity? What are some intangible gifts that everyone can give to others, without any training?
Perspectives
Evolved People Give Without Agenda, by Michael Bernard Beckwith, New Thought minister
"This is a process of growing out of a mindset of getting something from the world to letting something from within you be freely given. Generosity takes you off living on the “me” plan or the “we four and no more” plan, so consider putting yourself on a giving program that provides evidence that you are a generative being, that your generosity is a microcosmic reflection of the macrocosmic givingness of the Spirit."
The One Thing You Need To Do for Yourself Every Day, Always Be Kind To Others—Starting With the Person You'll Be Tomorrow, by Elizabeth Gilbert, author
"We are told to be kind and generous to ourselves, but it's not always easy. Often we don't feel deserving. Often we fail to act in our best interests in the chaos of the present moment, denying ourselves loving tenderness."
The Art of Listening by Eckhart Tolle, spiritual teacher
"Most human relationships consist mainly of minds interacting with each other, not of human beings communicating, being in communion. No relationship can thrive in that way, and that is why there is so much conflict in relationships.'"
Action
Consciously give today
Give away something that the receiver will find valuable. It could be something that has little value to you, or a lot of value to you. It could be a piece of jewelry, a toy, perhaps a redeemable ticket or coupon or gift card, or something else. What was the other person's reaction to your gift?
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Give your time. Set aside 10 minutes or more to listen to someone deeply without saying anything. Just listen. Only talk if necessary or they ask you a question. How did they respond to your attention?
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