Generosity

The Buddha teaches us that generosity (dana) is one of the fundamentals of our practice.  Being generous means that we give at least in proportion to what we have. We should give of all of our resources, financial, energy, material goods, effort, enthusiasm, you name and it should be shared.  There will be times when it is very hard to part with those things---we will want to preserve and protect them.  It is very hard to part with them because we fear being deprived or vulnerable.  Yet, when we can get past our fears and give freely and without expectation then we move closer to peace, joy, and wisdom.  Make no mistake, it is not always easy, but the benefit to others is where our thoughts should be.  Think of the devastation in Japan or the attacks on civilians in the Middle East.  What have you give to help them?  Is there more or something else you can do?  How about those around you whose needs may not be as great as those in Japan or Libya---have you given freely to them today? Find something to give away today.  Be as generous as you can.