Sunday, April 17, 2011

Generosity



I have been so blessed through my life by the generosity of others. I am not one who can claim to be independent, nor will I ever think that I got where I am by my own solitary efforts.

It is through the generosity of others that I have been able to follow my dreams in my adult life. When I think of generosity, I especially remember my two years on the road, living out of a van in the daytime and in the homes of strangers at night. What a weird thing to describe, but it was such a blessing to me that so many people would open their homes to my group, would feed us and bless us in so many ways.


The word "generosity" also brings to mind the people I have met while overseas. It is often those who have less than I do who bless me the most. It is the generous gift of their time, of their lives, or their friendships that has meant so much to me. I have met many people living in the "Majority World" who have so few possessions, yet have offered me whatever they have, both tangible and intangible.


I saw a woman I met in February again this weekend. She didn't know she would see me, nor I her. After talking, she pointed us to the nearby bookstore and told us to go grab whatever we wanted, it was on her. Wow. I don't think I have ever extended such a generous offer. Her generosity was in her attitude, as well, as she didn't do this to be thanked, hoping we would each pick one small item. No, she wanted us to go home blessed, and she loaded us up with items that would not only provide us with listening and reading entertainment, but would also encourage us in our walk with Christ. Her generosity reminded me of the many generous people I have come into contact with in the last few years. She reminded me of how blessed I am and have been.

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