As my business partner and I prepare for an evening as volunteers at a large charity event that raises money to help with the rehabilitation of women and children of domestic abuse, I can’t help but reflect on the amazing group of women that have selflessly pulled together all their resources in order to put on a lavish event for the purpose of helping those less fortunate. When we were presented with the opportunity to donate our event planning services, it was a no-brainer. Playing a role in raising money for those in need was an honor, to say the least. To be able to step outside ourselves for the sole purpose of giving back overwhelmed us with a sense of fulfillment and It came as second nature to us, which really got me thinking.
I often wonder what makes some people more inclined to give to strangers than others. Scratch that, I question what makes a person just plain give when they see a need. I would like to say that it comes from our upbringing, I had extremely generous parents, but I must admit, I myself have two children, one that repeatedly empties his piggy bank for the sole purpose of buying friends, family and children in need a little something special that he knows will brighten their day, while my other child would rather throw himself on the floor in an all out tantrum at the mere thought of having to share what he considers “mine.”
We have raised both our boys to be empathetic, thoughtful and considerate of others, however, the “giving” gene I believe is much greater than something we’re taught. The desire to make someone else feel good runs far deeper than a conversation about the importance of kindness. The older and wiser I get, the clearer I’m able to see that there are some things we can’t change in people. You can be taught to be respectful, polite and for the most part gracious, although I’m beginning to be believe sensitivity and generosity come from a place inside one’s heart, which is very difficult to teach. Don’t get me wrong, I will continue to stress the importance of what it means to step outside yourself and give to those less fortunate, I will continue our family’s yearly ritual of bagging up toys and clothes for the homeless every Christmas, however, I will also accept that my children are who they are and maybe one being a bit more selfish than the other isn’t the worst thing in the world ’cause after all, let’s be honest, that warm feeling I get in my heart when doing something nice for someone else is a bit selfish.