Fruits of the Spirit: Generosity

When we think about generosity we usually think about “things” today I’d like you to open that definition up a bit. We also usually think about being generous with others, today I’d like you to open that up a bit too and include you being generous with yourself as well as others.

 

James Baraz’ first chapter in Awakening Joy discusses the concept of setting a daily intention for yourself and your family. It’s a very simple concept, and far less intimidating than a lot of these sorts of things. It really and truly means just inclining your mind in a direction – no timetable, no agenda, you don’t have to feel like you let yourself down if it doesn’t happen – just try.

 

For instance, let’s imagine your intention is to be happier. Apparently just saying to yourself, “I am going to be happier”, helps it happen!

 

Here is the practice I want to share: imagine that your intention is indeed to let more happiness into your life, what are three things that would make you happy? Think of simple everyday things, this is not the time to set yourself up for disappointment.

 

 

Now here is the crazy part, have all of the members of your family do the same thing and share those teacup lists with each other. Maybe help your family members to realize their list and encourage them to help you realize your list. We all think we are good at telling other people what we need, but I bet none of us are. Here is a way to be generous with both yourself and your family members in a simple but deeply meaningful way, a way to awaken joy.

 

Simple ideas done with great love.

 

-Carolyn Hayes

Director of Children & Young Family Ministries