We learn early on that it is better to give than to receive. Saint Francis of Assisi said, “For it is in giving that we receive.” And it was Winston Churchill who said, “We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give.” Giving is an integral part of being human.
For many people, giving is tied to money, but giving shouldn’t be reduced to such a narrow scope. Giving touches every aspect of our humanness: physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual. Giving is boundless, priceless, unbridled, and eternal in its scope and application. Giving is universal, and its value isn’t determined by the giver or the receiver because giving is the gift.
It is true that giving makes you feel happy, and studies have shown that giving is good for your health. We know that giving promotes community and encourages gratitude. And I am glad to report from personal experience that giving is contagious. Anne Frank said, “No one has ever become poor by giving.” Giving is not for the rich, but giving will make you rich.
Since 1941, the fourth Thursday in November has been celebrated as “Thanksgiving Day” in the USA. But, long before President Roosevelt signed the bill, thanks giving was practiced on every continent and in every culture. Giving thanks is a natural expression that flows out of every human being, and giving thanks for all things is the fountainhead of giving.
Thanksgiving (the holiday) is more than family, food, and football. It is one of the building blocks in the foundation of civilization. If we fail to give thanks and stop cultivating hearts of gratitude, the very moorings of society will begin to shift and crumble. Giving is an integral part of being human.
Give yourself a moment, look inside your heart, and ask, “What kind of giver am I?” You can start by giving thanks, but don’t stop there. Remember: God loves a cheerful (hilarious) giver.
Doing Good at Work educates, equips, and empowers individuals, businesses, organizations, and non-profit leaders to build people, businesses, and communities who give. We promote generous living and generous giving. We are committed to helping people discover and learn to be generous givers through doing good. Click HERE to learn more and get started. What kind of GIVER do you want to be? Contact us today.
Giving,
Boomer
Dr. Boomer Brown, Ph.D., is the CEO of Doing Good at Work. Doing Good at Work is a 501(c) 3 organization that functions like a business. We desire to “Make People Better” because we know better people make better businesses, and better businesses make a better world. Learn more: https://doinggoodatwork.com/