(public domain image from www.pixabay.com)
When you are practicing generosity, you should feel
a little pinch when you give something away. That pinch
is your stinginess protesting. - Gelek Rinpoche
The Buddha referenced three levels of generosity.
First is the "beggarly" level. Sadly this may be the most common kind of generosity. It comes from people who give away things they don't want any donating to a charity damaged furniture, worn out clothing, electronic equipment which is outdated. This is not generosity. Rather it is merely dumping. And, they generally ask for and receive a receipt which will reduce their taxes because it was charitable donation. While this is better than nothing at all, it's not a particularly noble level of generosity.
Secondly is the "friendly" level of generosity. We share gifts, money, time, emotional support but usually toward those who are in our circle of family and friends. For example, When a friend unemployed we may provide some financial assistance as well as provide leads to new employment. This is a good level of generosity but somewhat limited.
Thirdly is the "princely" level of generosity. Here people are generous to a wide variety of individuals and organizations. The giving isn't limited to the smaller circle of friends, family, acquaintances. In addition, "princely" generous people often give away more than they keep. Some examples include the very wealthy who are able to give away more than half of their income. It can include persons who work an extra part time job so that they can give that money away to someone in need or donate heavily to a charitable organization.
What's your level of generosity? If it's lower can you raise it?
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