Dear Q,
Give freely and without the expectation of something in return.
Be generous of spirit. Let others in and don’t let your ego control your relationships and interactions.
Be generous with your time. Pay attention to those around you – people you know and people you don’t. This world emphasizes the importance of time – even at the expense of compassion. Take the time to stop and talk to people who seem in distress. Pay attention to those who are often ignored and avoided. Acknowledge them and validate their existence. Smile. Wait for the next bus, train, or taxi and take the time to engage in conversation.
Be generous with your space; is not a possession. Share it. Let people in and give them room. Allow people to merge and get in front of you when driving; you will still get where you are going. Leave a close parking space or bus seat for the next person; it is okay to walk a little farther.
Be generous with your possessions. Give clothes. Give things. Give money. Give what you can to make someone else’s day a little brighter.
Reflect what you value most in you. This world will encourage you to put yourself first and to think of your own needs before those of others. Be true to your self. Be true to the essence of who you are and what feeds your spirit. Be generous. Just be.
Love always,
Mom
Another important lesson for Q that we can all learn from. Well said, Sarah.
Thank you, Shannon!
I think it’s great to teach kids to be generous. Sometimes, it’s hard for all of us, but after we do it, we feel so good! Kids learn that, too, I think.
It is hard! I struggle with it – remembering to do it and not always take the best for myself.
Another great lesson for us all to learn from and remember.
Beautiful. This is a letter that should be sent out to most adults too.
Be generous of spirit. Such a beautiful idea, such a worthwhile purpose. I only hope I can teach my boys the same. I’m not sure I’m always good at it. I believe in leading by example and today you’ve reminded me of some important lessons to model to my boys. Thanks you!
I find this lesson hard, myself. It’s perhaps one of the hardest for me. I hope, like you, that I model it for Q instead of just writing it.
i love this. leaving the closer parking space is such a nice and anonymous way to be kind.
It is! I’ve been doing it for years (though admittedly, not every time). It drives Mr. T crazy.