On Valentine’s Day two years ago, Sasha Dicter started an accidental movement by setting one simple intention: to say YES to anyone who asked him to give. He called it Generosity Day.
His idea was this: Let’s rebrand Valentine’s Day as a day of “sharing love with everyone.” Let’s get away from the cheesy Hallmark cards and flowers (although admittedly, I love that stuff) and get to the *heart* of what Valentine’s Day really is: the real-deal, down-to-earth, day-to-day, smile-at-strangers, help-someone-in-need, give-what-you-can, be-kind-to-everyone kind of love.
When I think of this love, I’m reminded of the definition of philanthropy: philein – to love + anthropos – human being. A desire to help humankind. There are a few easy ways to wake up to this kind of love, to practice everyday philanthropy…and it’s within reach at any time. A few of my favorites:
1) Give when you are asked to give
2) Leave a bigger tip than usual
3) Help a stranger
4) Pay someone a compliment unexpectedly
5) Write a note telling someone how much you appreciate them
6) Smile at everyone you meet
7) Donate (more) to a cause that means a lot to you
8) Clean out your closets and donate clothes, books, toys
9) Leave a public bathroom a little nicer than when you found it
10) Be patient with yourself and others
All acts of generosity count! Small acts. Big acts. Just as long as you give of yourself willingly and happily.
Here’s a sweet video put together by the volunteer team promoting Generosity Day:
On this day celebrating love, how will you be generous? Drop me a line and let me know.
Find out more ways to be charitable on Valentine’s Day.
