I am always impressed with people who risk their own lives to save another, who will help you all hours of the night, who open their wallets to help those less fortunate.
I wish I was more like that. I try to be. I’m not selfish. I’ve given money to the Katrina and 9/ll victims, to animal sanctuaries, to cancer victims, autism groups, the girl scouts and other charities, etc. However, I’m talking about something more.
As I get older, it seems I feel more philanthropic and more concerned about the welfare of society as a whole. I am more inspired to do what I can to change the world and make it better. I think about where I can make a difference and I’m realizing it doesn’t have to be financially, but it can. I’m seeing that the more I give to people in need, the better I feel and the more it helps me.
My brother-in-law recently started a charity helping homeless veterans by collecting simple and much needed supplies, like clean underwear, t-shirts, new shoes, sleeping bags and toiletries, so they can have some dignity and comfort. His message has always been, “When you give to others, it changes you.”
So, I’ve been seeing some clients pro-bono or at a reduced rate, realizing that the tough economy doesn’t eliminate the need to have good mental health. I’ve been spending time with an ailing older relative in the hospital and seeing the joy it brings him to have some company and support.
Here is also what I am learning:
- Not only does it feel good to help family and friends, but it’s very rewarding helping strangers.
- It’s good to share the value of being generous to others, because it gives them an incentive to “pay it forward” as well.
- Generosity is not dependent on your financial ability, but rather on your mental ability to share yourself.
Erich Fromm states, “Not he who has much is rich, but he who gives much.” Generosity is a choice and when you give freely, it comes back to you tenfold. Therefore, you and I, if we continue to give of ourselves, can expect wonderful things to happen – an unexpected gift, a beautiful smile, a special complement, words of encouragement or just some overall satisfaction. What can be better than that?
Amy Sherman is a blogger with JenningsWire Online Magazine. You can read more posts by Amy here.
The post is presented by the National Publicist, Annie Jennings of the NYC based PR Firm, Annie Jennings PR. Annie Jennings PR specializes in marketing books for getting authors booked on radio talk show interviews, TV shows in major online and in high circulation magazines and newspapers. Annie also works with speaker and experts to build up powerful platforms of credibility and influence.
