Can you be rich and generous?

Yes.

The end.

But let’s define rich first.

Each person’s definition of what is considered ‘rich’ entirely depends on which way they are looking. Are they looking at those who have less than them, or are they looking at those who have more? I think it’s one of the only times that it is okay to compare yourself with others, as long as you are looking in the right direction. Most people living in developed countries are wealthier than most of the world.

There is also a definition of ‘rich’ that talks about family and relationships. An emotional wealth of love and support from the people around you. This is not something you can easily compare against others, and, most importantly, this wealth is not limited by physical currency. There is no market cap on emotional wealth. We can all be rich.

Let’s define generosity.

Generosity is giving something to others, be that money, time, expertise, presence or energy. It costs you something, but it doesn’t cost you yourself. It is an outworking of your internal world and adds great value to your life in psychological, physical, emotional and spiritual ways.

Generosity makes you feel rich, no matter how much you have.

You can be one, or the other, ideally both. 

The end.