I was born into a generous family.  My parents are generous people  When I was growing up, they were generous with their love for each other and for me and my brother.  They were also generous in many other ways.  It is easy to understand what it is to be generous when you grow up with it flowing all around you.

There are so many actions that show generosity.  One can be generous with money and things.  On a deeper level, one can be generous with time and attention. These are all sorely needed in our society.  But most of all, you and I can be generous with love and affection, as I learned from my parents.

The best thing about generosity is the feeling attached to it.  If something is given freely, which is what generosity requires, the very act of it is as good for you as the one who receives it.  It is beneficial to both parties.  It is a win-win situation.

I think the reason that generosity is not employed by everyone, is that it was not felt or demonstrated in the first years of one’s life.  Early childhood experiences have far-reaching effects on a person’s emotional development.

That’s why an atmosphere of love being freely given is so important in infancy.  It dramatically influences one’s view of the world and sets the stage for lifelong attitudes.  When we are the recipients of good in our lives, then it is easier to be a giver to others.  I also think that when one has been given much, much should be given, in turn, to others.

All it takes for one to be generous is to be willing and open to giving of oneself.  That attitude alone fosters an internal environment of positive energy.  And soon, the opportunities to give will begin to appear in your life.  If you act upon them, they will become generous actions.  It is impossible to stop the flow of generosity if you surrender yourself to these feelings.  It can almost be addictive.  It is the reason some people choose lives of ministry.

Although the rewards are extremely fulfilling, it does require the risk of being rejected.  But as long as you can see that the act of giving is important, whether or not it is received, you will not be disappointed.   And it is always a very good thing.