Generosity: This Is Some Premium Stuff

Generosity is good for the heart. After reading an older article in the U.S. News and World Report, we found another angle on the benefits of being generous. As the article states, many studies have been conducted showing the benefits of giving and living a generous life. However, it is the last comment in the article that we will focus on for this entry.  

Stephen G. Post, is quoted in the article, stating, "On a scale of 1 to 10 – and 10's a really powerful drug like insulin in the treatment of diabetes – this stuff is probably up there around a 7 or 8. And the amazing thing is, you don't need to go to a drugstore for it." Now that is a benefit we had not considered before - reduced drug expenses! It does make sense that if a person's generosity affects their health, it would likely directly impact the amount of money they spend on medicine. But we did not make that connection until seeing Post's quote.  

If giving is an elixir that calms the heart, brings fulfillment and purpose to one's life, and reduces such ailments as stress, depression, and anxiety, then that is some premium stuff! Of course, as with any drug, there must be a side effects statement on generosity. It would sound something like this: 

"Common side effects from giving may include reduced hypertension, increased optimism, higher self-awareness, better relationships, greater purpose, and the undeniable fact that you have contributed positively to people's lives and the world in which you live."

It is important to be aware that generosity, as a drug, needs to have a prescriptive use statement. Maybe something like this:

"For maximum benefit from giving ensure that it is heartfelt and sincere. Note that your intentions in giving do matter and affect the resulting benefit received. Give freely, willingly, and joyfully and whenever possible, understand the impact of your giving."

As Mr. Post indicates in the article, "If it's a meaningful donation, it can have a significant impact." The way you give will make a tremendous difference in the potency of benefit to your life. Additionally, being aware of how a person's gift has made an impact is an essential factor in generosity's beneficial work in one's life. This is why, at eMite, we make sure to keep our donors fully aware of how their donations are being used and to celebrate the final impact made through their Mites!