I was talking to my friend about “ generosity”. He asks, “ Is there such a thing as disinvested generosity?” My answer initially was, “ Yes. ” As I thought harder about it, I got more confused.
In Buddhism, the most cherished generosity is to give freely without wishing for anything in return. However, Buddhists believe in Karma, and the definition of karma means that every action has consequences. We do good things hoping that it has a good effect on our future. So do Buddhists believe in a truly disinvested generosity?
Christmas is all about giving, but it can later translate to desire and what you hope to receive in exchange for the gift you had given. Then there are people who say they do not want any gift or present for their act of giving; thus these people build a good reputation. That reputation in itself is the substitute of the gift they may have received- the person becomes respected and venerated in his/her community. Then no longer is he/ she contributing in disinvested generosity.
Suze Orman, a financial advisor, motivational speaker and author, says the true meaning of generosity is to not expect anything in return. It doesn’t matter how much you donate or give as long as your generosity is pure and real. Then the karma will just work itself out.
So…I do not know whether there is such a thing as disinvested generosity, but just know that what you give is equivalent to what you get. The universe is relentless; it hears and sees your harmful or dutiful acts. Your actions alone do not dictate the cause and effect of your destiny or luck; your thoughts ( good and bad) play a major role too. Your generosity is not just about the money you give, but the ( good and pure) thoughts that come along with it.
What do you think? Is there such a thing as disinvested generosity? What’s the logic of a gift?
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2 comments:
The other thing to think about is the pleasure we take from giving a gift. I often enjoy the presents I give at Christmas at least as much as the ones I get - assuming that I make smart choices and the recipients like what they receive.
As a non-Buddhist I don't really buy into the idea that the universe is watching and will give me back what I deserve, but it seems smart to act like that's the case. If nothing else, our own meanness diminishes us. We're happier people when we can look ourselves in the eye in the mirror each morning, knowing that we have done right by others. This is true of more than just the giving of gifts.
hi
i like your blog.
thank you
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