“Compassion is led, not bred. We must take our children by the hand and lead them down a path of empathy because giving equates to growth and kindheartedness.” - Crisitne Phillipps Arnold
One of our key objectives here at eMite is to encourage and facilitate the generational aspects of giving. People do not just fall into generosity. It is not something that is genetically conveyed from parent to child. A giving heart is developed through observation, inspiration, engagement and practice.
If charity is not displayed to the eye, the heart will not develop a giving nature. This is the importance of generous persons, both past and present, who display lives of compassion, service and giving. These individuals are signal fires that beckon us to live in the same manner. It is also the reason why it is important to share as a family in charitable action. Whether giving to our favorite organizations or serving at the soup kitchen or even just giving a coat away to a homeless person on the street, when those actions are done before the ones we love and before those who trust and respect us, it conveys to our loved ones an understanding that giving is better!
I must qualify the above statement by saying, charity done before the eyes of people for the intent of promoting self is not charity at all and has no effect in encouraging generosity. Those actions are often seen for what they are - selfish and self serving. But when individuals live out generosity to no acclaim and when we, as parents, display charity to our children, we become powerful examples of how giving can endow lives with joy and purpose.
To whose benefit? Here is the beautiful thing! In God’s infinite wisdom and understanding, the charitable transaction benefits all who are involved - the Giver, the Recipient and the Spectator. All benefits and all are transformed. But it may be the one who sees charity, is inspired and acts out charity in his/her own life who benefits the greatest. For it is that person who starts a journey of greater purpose, expanded horizons, deeper connections and experiences in the joy of giving. We should desire this journey in our own lives and desire to pass the same onto our children.
At eMite, we love helping givers through presenting well researched, compelling opportunities in giving that will inspire and change people’s lives. If we can help you and your family in the area of charitable giving, please let us know.