Generosity: For We Are Commanded To Give To Those That Want

As human beings, we are part of a closely connected world where acts of kindness can shape lives and transform communities. In an era where material possessions and personal gain are often prioritized, it is important to reflect on the value of generosity and the impact it can have on others. One of the most profound teachings that transcends religions and belief systems is the commandment to give to those in need. This ageless wisdom reminds us of our shared responsibility to support and uplift one another.

The Essence of Generosity

A generous act is not merely an exchange of material possessions; it goes beyond providing a temporary solution to a problem. True generosity stems from a genuine desire to alleviate suffering and promote the well-being of others. Whether it is through monetary donations, volunteering time and skills, or offering emotional support, acts of generosity have the power to create a ripple effect that extends far beyond the immediate recipient.

At the heart of generosity lies empathy – the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. When we empathize with those in need, we begin to see them as equals, deserving of the same opportunities and privileges that we enjoy. This shift in perspective enables us to embrace the concept of giving as an intrinsic moral duty that benefits not just the receiver, but also the giver.

The Convent of Pleasure: 'For we are commanded to give to those that want''

by Wayne Pease(Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	54 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	67 pages

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The Commandment to Give

Throughout history, various religious and spiritual texts have emphasized the importance of giving to those in need. These teachings are not limited to a specific faith but are universal in their message. In Christianity, the Bible urges believers to share their resources with those who lack them: "Give to everyone who asks of you, and whoever takes away what is yours, do not demand it back" (Luke 6:30). The Quran, considered the holy book of Islam, encourages Muslims to give generously: "And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive" (Quran 76:8).

Similarly, many other religions and philosophies advocate for charitable acts, highlighting the significance of selflessness and compassion. These teachings remind us that generosity is not just a personal choice but a divine commandment that transcends individual preferences and biases.

The Power of Generosity

Generosity has the ability to transform lives, not only for those in need but also for the giver. When we extend a helping hand, we create a cycle of positive energy that uplifts communities and fosters a sense of interconnectedness. This cycle of giving and receiving nurtures trust, empathy, and goodwill among individuals, consequently fostering a harmonious society.

Moreover, acts of generosity have a profound impact on the human psyche. Numerous scientific studies have shown that giving activates the reward centers in the brain, releasing dopamine and endorphins that promote happiness and well-being. Researchers have even coined the term "helper's high" to describe the euphoric feeling one experiences when engaging in selfless acts of kindness.

The Challenges and Rewards

While the command to give to those in need is clear, the practice of generosity is not without its challenges. In a world riddled with inequality and limited resources, it can be daunting to determine how and where to allocate our time, money, and efforts. However, even the smallest acts of kindness can create a significant impact.

One crucial lesson in cultivating generosity is discernment. It involves identifying genuine needs rather than enabling unhealthy dependencies. Discernment helps us identify individuals or organizations that are truly in need, allowing our contributions to be meaningful and effective.

The rewards of generosity are abundant, extending far beyond the momentary satisfaction of helping someone in need. When we give selflessly, we experience a genuine sense of fulfillment and purpose. The act of giving opens our hearts, broadens our perspectives, and deepens our connections with fellow human beings. As we witness the direct positive impact of our actions, we become inspired to continue spreading kindness and generosity in all aspects of our lives.

Generosity has stood the test of time as a value that transcends cultural, religious, and societal boundaries. It is a powerful force that has the potential to transform lives, uplift communities, and promote the well-being of all. As individuals, we have a moral obligation to give to those in need, regardless of our circumstances. By embracing generosity as a guiding principle, we can play our part in creating a more compassionate and inclusive world.

The Convent of Pleasure: 'For we are commanded to give to those that want''

by Wayne Pease(Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	54 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	67 pages

FREE

Margaret Lucas Cavendish, Duchess of Newcastle-upon-Tyne was born in 1623 in Colchester, Essex into a family of comfortable means.

From an early age Margaret was already assembling her thoughts for future works despite the then conditions of society that women did not partake in public authorship. For England it was also a time of Civil War.

Despite these obvious dangers, Margaret asked her mother for permission to become one of her Ladies-in-waiting. She was accepted and, in 1644, accompanied the Queen into exile in France. This took her away from her family for the first time.

Despite living at the Court of the young King Louis XIV, life for the young Margaret was not what she expected. She was far from her home and her confidence had been replaced by shyness and difficulties fitting in to the grandeur of her surroundings and the eminence of her company.

Margaret told her mother she wanted to leave the Court. Her mother was adamant that she should stay. She provided additional funds for her to make life easier. It was now also that she met and married William Cavendish who, at the time, was the Marquis of Newcastle. He was also 30 years her senior and previously married with two children.

As Royalists, a return to life in England was not yet possible. They would remain in exile in Paris, Rotterdam and Antwerp until the restoration of the crown in 1660 although Margaret was able to return for attention to some estate matters.

Along with her husband's brother, she travelled to England after having been told that her husband's estate was to be sold and that she, as his wife, would receive some benefit of the sale. She received nothing. She left England to be with her husband again.

The couple were devoted to each other. Margaret wrote that he was the only man she was ever in love with, loving him not for title, wealth or power, but for merit, justice, gratitude, duty, and fidelity. She also relied upon him for support in her career. The marriage provided no children despite efforts made by her physician to overcome her inability to conceive.

Margaret’s first book, ‘Poems and Fancies’, was published in 1653; it was a collection of poems, epistles and prose pieces which explores her philosophical, scientific and aesthetic ideas.

For a woman at this time writing and publishing were avenues they had great difficulty in pursuing. She wrote across a number of issues including gender, power, manners, scientific method, and philosophy.

She always claimed she had too much time on her hands and was therefore able to indulge her love of writing. As a playwright she produced many works although most are as closet dramas. (This is a play not intended to be performed onstage, but instead read by a solitary reader). For Margaret the rigours of exile, her gender and Cromwell’s closing of the theatres mean this was her early vehicle of choice and, despite these handicaps, she became one of the most well-known playwrights in England)

Her utopian romance, ‘The Blazing World’, is one of the earliest examples of science fiction. Margaret also published extensively in natural philosophy and early modern science; at least a dozen books.

She was the first woman to attend a meeting at Royal Society of London in 1667 and she criticized and engaged with members and philosophers Thomas Hobbes, René Descartes, and Robert Boyle.

Margaret was always defended against any criticism by her husband and he also contributed to some of her works. She also gives him credit as her writing tutor.

Perhaps a little strangely she said her ambition despite her shyness, was to have everlasting fame. During her career, from the mid 1650’s until her death, she was prolific. In recent decades her work has undergone a resurgence of interest propelled mainly by her ground-breaking attitude and accomplishments in those male straitened times.

Margaret Cavendish died on 15th December 1673 and was buried at Westminster Abbey.