The real measure of generosity

“A life is not measured by what we do or what we give, but by who we are … The impact we’ve had on the lives around us could be felt for decades. How present am I with the people in my life? Am I able to take responsibility for the actions that hurt others? Do I want to be right or can I choose to be thoughtful and kind?” ~Cheryl Richardson

Most of us equate “generosity” with lavish gifting — especially this time of year. As I type this, economists are tracking and comparing annual statistics on holiday spending, including the types of purchases we make and how much money each income level can afford to splurge.

Experts report that U.S. holiday spending is set to reach a record high this year. But the impressive figures hide some large income disparities. Affluent households are expected to spend even more than in previous years, but lower-income families face shrinking holiday gift budgets due to higher prices, economic uncertainty and inflation. In other words, while some consumers are stressing about what to buy for everyone on their lists, others wonder if they can possibly stretch their dollars far enough.

But as Cheryl Richardson reminds us, our actions are remembered long after the material gifts we buy. How we treat each other is what truly matters. The greatest present we can give is our caring presence and attention, which cannot be tied up with ribbons or measured in dollars. ~CL