“The big story this year is the amazing rise in giving across Africa,” says Sir John Low, Charities Aid Foundation’s (CAF) chief executive. “Around the world, economic development is lifting the income of millions of people and it is truly humbling to see that the natural reaction to increasing wealth is to give back.” Story at npr.org by Kelsey Timmerman*
The natural reaction to increased wealth is to give back…at least that is what Mr. Timmerman found in Kenya and in seven other African nations. Yes, Africa. I am wondering if that’s your reaction to an increase in wealth…if your first thought is…how can I share this? How can I use this to make a difference?
Maybe not. Maybe your first thought is ‘more for me’ or ‘I finally have some extra’. Or maybe you think about sharing, but then you think ‘it’s mine, I deserve to have it’ or ‘I really need it for this,’ whatever “this” is. These kinds of first thoughts tell something about how you see yourself in the world. It also is a clue about the openness of your heart.
When we have an increase in wealth and think only ‘me first,’ we don’t clearly see the connection we have to humanity, the big picture is fuzzy. Then we get lost in our own personal world and we actually feel disconnected. It’s the old me and them…or to the extreme, me against the world. This is the evidence of a closed heart.
The heart-open response to an increase in wealth is…how can I share this? With an open heart we acknowledge our common humanity, our connection to each other and the bigger picture of life. We understand the beauty and power in all rising up together. We respond naturally and generously by giving because it feels right…it is in our nature to give.
Let me say this about giving, especially about giving money…the amount is irrelevant. Check in with your heart and give based on how you feel. Learn to open your heart first and decide from there. Soon your response to an increase in wealth will be…how can I use this to make a difference? It is in your nature to give, to feel connected and to make a difference.
Love always
Paula
*Kelsey Timmerman is the author of Where Am I Wearing? and Where Am I Eating? He’s currently working on his third book, Where Am I Giving? A Global Adventure Exploring How to Use Your Gifts and Talents to Make a Difference.
