I love to read the affirmations on my tea bags at lunch. Clearly, I am a creature of habit…regular coffee at breakfast, herbal tea at lunch, decaf coffee at night. Oh, and I always set the table for the next meal, including vitamins, supplements, meds, etc. As much as I love and adore breakfast, it is usually a challenge because I have my word games to tackle. Wordle, Spelling Bee, Connections, Letter Boxed all distract from the din of sad and disturbing news on television as I sit with pencil and pad and I pretend I am not aware of the dangers of life at this moment. And then, when I return to my lunch table, my tea and affirmations settle me a bit.

The words, “generosity is the key to an abundant life” grabbed my attention recently, because if I have learned anything as I age, it is that giving of oneself is a gift that continues to give, long after the person has left. Looking around to friends, family, notables I/we have lost reinforces that those who made themselves available to others, giving of themselves from their heart, are truly treasured, forever.

I am not suggesting we use generosity as a manipulation to leave behind kind thoughts or appreciation. Au contraire, I believe as we give from our hearts, as often as possible, those deeds and gifts improve our intrinsic value. If there is anything selfish about being selfless it is that the warmth created by giving is inestimable.

There are various commodities in life: time, love, money, attention or focus, kindness and spiritual connection are among them. Some people are generous with money but unable to offer love or attention. There are also those who are generous with time but unable to offer money. Generosity of spirit and kindness is a commodity that is all too often undervalued. We need all types of generosity, because by giving, in whatever way we are able to do, we build a muscle that strengthens us as a human being.

As counterintuitive as it seems to say that by giving one will have an abundant life, I believe it is very, very true. Whether I am counseling a new ostomate or handing a dollar to the young baseball players collecting for uniforms in front of the supermarket, helping someone with a project, or simply telling someone that I love and care about them, there is a good feeling that overtakes me. It is a special feeling, connected to a sense of making a difference, sharing my many commodities.

As I continue to read the title quote, I envision a cornucopia of harvested fruit and vegetables. Perhaps it is the centerpiece on the Thanksgiving table. Grabbing a ripe apple or pear, I turn it all around to appreciate its beauty. And then, I look around for someone who can enjoy it. Handing it to that person, I feel that special feeling. I know what it is…it is an abundant life, and I am fortunate enough to live it. As are we all…