Today is “Giving Tuesday,” a global generosity movement aimed at giving in whatever way seems best for us. The world has become a big village where everything that happens in every corner affects us all. This is why I believe “Giving Tuesday” is such a worthy cause.
A twitter search revealed that people are giving in many different ways –from rescuing animals, donating books and other collectibles, funding education, helping asylum seekers and a host of worthwhile causes. This morning I gave a copy of one of my books to a lady who told me she wanted to purchase one. The look of pleasant surprise on her face was all the thanks I needed. The idea is not how much you give but that you give of what you have.
But, you say, I have nothing to give. What about yourself? Can you give of yourself today? Can you volunteer somewhere? Help someone who is working on a project and can use another pair of hands? This morning I saw President Jimmy Carter on television helping with his Habitat for Humanity a few days after he’d been released from the hospital after suffering a fall. His face was bruised, his hands appeared shaky, but he was giving of himself.
You may have heard the saying, “it is better to give than to receive.” Researchers have found that giving helps the giver as much as the receiver. It makes the giver feel generous, worthwhile and valuable. This can have a positive impact on your mood and your mental health. On an interesting note, researchers have also found that people prefer experiences to objects. Think of that the next time you decide to give.
If you gave something today, drop me a line and let me know what you gave and how it was received (if you gave to a person.) And you can sign up for my free gift to you below:
