Everyday Generosity

Performing small acts of kindness and generosity can have a profound impact on the lives of others Whether it's holding the door open for someone, offering a compliment, or simply lending an ear to someone in need, these acts of kindness can brighten someone's day and bring a smile to their face

Doing these small things on a regular basis can also help to create a culture of compassion and understanding making the world a better place for everyone

Compassion without action is merely an observation The world has more than enough observers and spectators Many people care about things like the environment health and wellness or even the safety and success of the next generation but there is a line between showing care and taking action.

With the access we now have in an everconnected world, we are inundated with more information than ever before in history.

We know more about war or famine or oceanic reefs than our ancestors a generation or two ago would have even been able to imagine. Yet, we are also seeing more isolation, less empathy, and at times a lowkey disdain for knowing the plight of others when we ourselves have so much going on in our own lives to worry and stress over.

This compassion fatigue can lead to several negative effects in both those who experience it and the people around them.

Symptoms of depression or anxiety, mood swings, social withdrawal, and even, feelings of hopelessness can all develop as a result of "feeling" the weight of someone else's loss or tragedy Forget "walking a mile in their shoes"; just the thought of their journey can be enough to give us anxiety

How do we deal with this, and what is our best response for a world in need?

We give We feel We take action. The only way to begin the process of healing and restoration after trauma or grief is to go through it Some grief is unavoidable the death or loss of a parent or an economic downturn but what can change and is ultimately the only thing within our control is our response

Will we be there for our neighbors as they deal with sickness, will we take in a child who needs a safe home, and will we take the chance to walk with someone as they fight the battle of their life for their marriage or their child?

Many of us are dealing with really hard things right now, but I will encourage you that the way through these hard things is to give, not hold back Instead, practice everyday generosity in the face of turmoil

By incorporating small and big acts of generosity into our daily routine, we can help to improve the lives of those around us and bring a little bit of happiness into our circles and the world