| Generosity is a noble human trait. It
relates both to cash and kind.
Spending on the needy and that too in a
generous way is such a spiritually satisfying and fulfilling
experience. It gives us a great feeling of gratification and
in fact at one stage becomes an addiction because of the
peace of mind and elation of soul it provides.
As far as generosity in kind is
concerned, it has many aspects.
Foremost is generosity in acknowledging
the countless favours of God. The best way to do this is to
show obedience to His directives. Next come our parents.
Looking after them in a magnanimous way and being gentle and
kind to them is in line with this generosity. In particular,
their emotional needs must be taken care of. Continuing with
this sequence, our children, siblings and extended members
of the family must be treated in a bounteous way.
We have to be generous in showering
praise on others too by appreciating their qualities
whole-heartedly and expressing them in words. This gives a
tremendous boost to their self-confidence and also makes
them feel acknowledged by those around them.
Generosity must also be shown in
forgiving others. All of us make mistakes. We inflict all
sorts of wrongs on others and at times they are irreparable.
However, considering that if others have been bad to us, we
too may have a share in doing wrong to others. Let us think
of our own faults before we think of the faults of others
and be magnanimous in forgiving others if we are to expect
others to be magnanimous in forgiving us.
We must also be generous in giving small
gifts, presents and tokens of appreciation to our family
members, friends and neighbours. Sharing food on special
occasions to people around us is also a mark of generosity.
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