“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” Winston Churchill (British wartime Prime Minister)
Generosity and kindness: these are simple and fundamental human behaviours. But how many of us are really holding up our end of the bargain when it comes to giving back?
The act of giving, of selflessness, is a basic human need. To serve others gives purpose and meaning to our lives and sits at the heart of our humanity and the community we share. It gives us emotional connection and helps us feel that we belong.
(See ADA’s The Little Blue Book of MENTAL HEALTH pp. 124)
Put simply, it is good for us – and good for society – to be generous and kind, to ‘give back’.
This year, on the 30th of November, people all around the world stand together to recognise Giving Tuesday. A global generosity movement that celebrates all acts of giving, both big and small. The event was created back in 2012 as a simple project revolving around people doing good. Initially founded in America, the event is now celebrated all over the world, including Australia.
Quite often, when faced with the idea of giving, some of us will immediately think of a financial transaction – giving money. Which is good (of course), but there are so many more ways that our generosity can spark good throughout the wider community.
Giving goods is one way: reusing your previously loved items by giving them to a local charity or op shop is always a great way to help (and sure to bring someone else joy). Donations don’t just have to be in the form of toys or clothes however, donating blood, for instance, is another great way to give back.
Or you might volunteer your time, your voice and energy in support of community causes – on the environment, on matters of social justice, or on equality. This too is a way of ‘giving back’, of building a better world, and better communities.
Of course, financial giving is obviously a good option. Donating money can help our community organisations and charities to continue thriving in order to do what they do best – giving back.
So, give of yourself. Get involved with your community, help out when you can, look for opportunities to give help, to share your energy, and to put your enthusiasm and compassion to work. (See ADA’s The Little Blue Book of MENTAL HEALTH pp. 124)
And if you would like to learn more about the 2021 Australian Giving Tuesday campaign and how you can get involved, visit the official website at: https://www.givingtuesday.org.au/
If this information raised any concerns for you, please do speak to your GP, they can help you back to good health, or call a helpline: LIFELINE 13 11 14 or BeyondBlue 1300 22 4636.