When I was 12, my six cousins moved one state south of Illinois. They didn’t want to leave the town where we were all growing up, as they prepared to go we started saying they were moving to the State of Misery (the fair state of Missouri). Then they settled in, made a new life, and I found myself in a new state — the State of Miss-ery.
Since that time, I’ve always been curious about “states of mind.”
This week, generosity has been the theme. People have given their time and their words to help bring attention to folks living in poverty.
Ever seen generosity?
It’s a child offering a flower because flowers make people smile. It’s grandfather picking up a granddaughter because holding her high is good for who she will be. It’s a teenager helping a stranger.
It’s giving unconditionally. It’s an offer of humanity with no strings inside. Generosity looks the same as doing our duty, but it feels like living up to who we are.
Generosity is a state of mind. It’s an open heart answering an unsent call.
Generosity doesn’t have to be an overt action.
It’s listening. It’s accepting. It’s taking time . . . giving time . . . taking time to give. Generosity is part of connection with any other human being. It’s valuing ourselves by valuing everyone around us.
Can you see how it’s generous to connect?
–ME “Liz” Strauss
Work with Liz!!