The Virtue of Generosity

To know the value of generosity, it is necessary to have suffered from the cold indifference of others- Eugene Cloutier.Generosity is a decision we make to act in opposition to hate, contempt, envy and, indifference. Thinking of generosity in monetary terms is not necessary. Often, non-monetary gifts such as time, encouragement, hope, laughter, hospitality and service have values.Note that, the most valuable commodity in today’s society is time. Volunteering is being kind and generous with your time. It is a valid form of giving and it makes us richer than any possessions we could have needs to cultivate.The virtue is a good company and it shows courage, gentleness, heroism and kindness.Read more: How do I align my thoughts to fit my goals

Generosity combats materialism

The best way to fight the society’s obsession with wealth and the toys is to treat possessions like fleeting extra. Giving away our money to charity, NGO, reliefs goes a long way.Giving the extra stuff we have in our closets is not bad. Materialism builds a shrine to the things we own.

Generosity extends our influence

A lifestyle of giving meets immediate needs; but it also lays a foundation for the future. One’s life grows exponentially. Sharing makes you bigger than you are.

Generosity challenges selfishness

There is nothing explicitly wrong with being self-involved because being concerned with our interest is the only way to protect our well-being.For example, when you grab an umbrella when it rains is an acceptable self-centeredness. But, when you grab someone else’s umbrella from their hand either an old lady or old man is bad kind. Bad kind of selfishness means to take advantage of someone else or ignoring them completely.Therefore, generosity is not a random idea but, a basic, personal, moral orientation to life. In a world of moral contrast, it entails not only the moral good expressed but the vices such as selfishness, greed, fear rejected.Like all virtues, generosity is in your genuine enlightened self-interest to practice. It inspires gratitude.