Generosity: The Four Kinds of Giving

The Dalai Lama (2012) in his book 'Beyond Religion' talks of 'ethics for a whole world' and speaks of the following 'four kinds of giving' (p.130):

1. giving material goods
2. giving freedom from fear – providing safety, security and honesty
3. giving spiritual counsel – providing 'comfort, concern, and advice to support others' psychological and emotional well-being
4. giving love

The Dalai Lama has the following to say about generosity:

'It seems worthwhile to say a few words about the value of generosity. Generosity is the most natural outward expression of and inner attitude of compassion and loving-kindness. When one desires to alleviate the suffering of others and to promote their well-being, then generosity – in action, word and thought – is this desire put into practice. It is important to recognise that “generosity” here refers not just to giving in a material sense, but to a generosity of the heart.'

(Dalai Lama, 2012, p.129)

Let's be generous. Like a puppy, generosity is not just for Christmas !