Dear Friends,
Generosity is a quality that makes us feel happy, bright, and expansive – whether giving, receiving, or both.
Yesterday, one of our participants shared a beautiful reflection about being on the receiving end of generosity. I think this is an important part of this practice of generosity – to be able to receive, with mindfulness, what is generously offered.
I think, in many ways, being on the receiving end of generosity is difficult in our North American culture. I remember one time when I went out for supper with my parents, and an aunt and uncle and cousin. At the end of the meal, my cousin paid for everything! Alas, my dad wasn’t very gracious about this… on the ride home, dad was so busy fretting whether my cousin could really afford it, that he missed the joy my cousin experienced in doing this special thing.
Likewise, some people are reluctant to ask for help – many of us want to look like we have it all together. But asking for help lets other have an opportunity to give.
We build connection by giving and receiving.
Our practice here in these emails is supported by other people generously caring about sharing this wisdom. There are so many resources that are freely offered online. I’ve attended retreats and group activities where my presence is the only thing that’s asked. My teachers and mentors share their wisdom freely as they too have received it through a generous lineage. We survive on each other’s generosity. I find that so inspiring!
Having a sense of gratitude supports for generosity – knowing how much we have, and how much that we’ve been given. We have to be aware of what is being given to us. Touching into the many times we are on the receiving end helps our hearts open, to relieve our stories of scarcity, and to foster our own ability to be generous.
In another talk on generosity, Mark Coleman offered this as a reflection:
Take a moment to reflect on a time you were given to, that you received. Think of the innumerable ways you’ve been supported by family and friends: love, kindness, support, generosity. Take a moment to thank those people, even if there is some conflict.
Think about someone you’d like to return the favor to. Offer some kindness, presence, generosity, care – anonymously or otherwise. Notice what happens in your mind or heart when you think about giving – perhaps there is sweetness or joy.
My suggestion for today: put out your radar for times that you are on the receiving end of another’s generosity. Take joy in the other person’s joy, and see if that will open your heart to the great web of interconnection.
If you have a story to share about your experiences, post a comment here!
With best wishes,
Andrea
In my experience it is often easier to give than receive. I am not sure what the resistance is about but i do know thru practice the receiving is becoming easier.
Three weeks ago i had a knee replacement. I have had to rely on family and friend’s generosity to get thru the days. At first i fet bad cause they (family and friends) are busy with their own lives. After much reflecting i am at peace with accepting their acts of generosity. In fact, by accepting their generosity with grace, i am giving them a gift too.
Hi Mars, I’ve noticed the same resistance. It’s a practice, but like you, I’ve noticed things starting to shift.
This is a great realization: “by accepting their generosity with grace, i am giving them a gift too” – thanks for sharing that!
Hello Andrea,
Just wanted to say a BIG THANK YOU. I feel truly grateful to be one of the “receivers” of your daily email. I am very new to meditation and your email has been a wonderful resource. Now I look forward to receive your email every morning. Thank you again.
Crystal
Thanks Crystal!