Generosity

  • Friendship and relationship advice,  Generosity,  Kindness quotes

    Gifts and giving

    “Giving doesn’t impoverish us; it makes us richer.” ~Martha Beck, The Way of Integrity There are so many different gifting styles and practices — and psychotherapists have some interesting theories on that. Some folks get a thrill out of selecting the perfect presents for their loved ones; others rarely express their affection by giving material things. Some might discourage gift-giving because they don’t want to feel obligated to reciprocate. Still others don’t have a budget to buy gifts — but happily receive them. Either way, gifting should come from the heart. I think it should be fun, too. I love buying small presents for others as much as I love…

  • Generosity,  Self-confidence

    Playing from the heart

    “If I am smart in business, it’s just that I’m smart about who I am. I know what I can, can’t, will, and won’t do. And if I have to be strict about that, I will.” ~Dolly Parton I’ve always admired Dolly Parton. Not necessarily because of her musical talents — although it’s worth noting that she can play close to 20 instruments, including the fiddle, mandolin and pan-flute. Even with those long acrylic fingernails. I get a kick out of her over-the-top wardrobe, personality, and showmanship. As Dolly’s quote reminds us, it takes a huge helping of self-confidence to pull it off. But what impresses me even more is her…

  • Christmas,  Friendship and relationship advice,  Generosity,  Holiday traditions

    The gift of your attention

    “Nothing you can give will ever be more appreciated than your sincere, focused attention—your full presence. Truly being with someone, and listening without a clock and without anticipation of the next event, is the ultimate compliment.” ~Marc Chernoff, Marc & Angel Hack Life This week, I’ve been preoccupied with last-minute holiday shopping. Should I bring a dessert or an appetizer to a Christmas Eve party? What about hostess gifts? Should I buy something else for our Christmas morning brunch? Did I forget to treat a friend? And do I have enough presents for my three-year-old grandson who also has a birthday this week? Then I ran across today’s quote —…

  • Generosity,  Gratitude,  Inspirational quotes

    The light of gratitude

    “At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.” ~Albert Schweitzer Gratitude lists are a big part of the community journaling workshops I teach periodically — and I try to practice what I preach. One of my favorite exercises is to jot down the names of everyone, past and present, who made a difference in my life. My family doctor — who retires this month — is at the top of my list. I wouldn’t be walking pain-free today if it weren’t for his care…

  • Generosity,  Greenfield Village and Henry Ford Musuem,  Holidays,  Kindness quotes

    Garden of giving

    “A field is empty, but if you put in the effort to grow something then you will have a garden. And that’s life. If you give something, something will come back. Give nothing, nothing will come back. To grow a flower is a miracle: it means you can grow more. Remember that a flower is not just a flower, it is the start of a whole garden.” ~Eddie Jaku, The Happiest Man on Earth The season of Thanksgiving is the perfect time to share sentiments about abundance, generosity, and gratitude — so you’ll be seeing more of these here throughout November. In today’s quote, Holocaust survivor Eddie Jaku reminds us that…

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