You Can Make a Difference

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.

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.

Here is also what I am learning:

1. Not only does it feel good to help family and friends, but it’s very rewarding helping strangers.
2. It’s good to share the value of being generous to others, because it gives them an incentive to “pay it forward” as well.
3. 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 can expect wonderful things to happen – an unexpected gift, a beautiful smile, a special complement or words of encouragement. What can be better than that?