Tribute to Generosity

Generosity can be a difficult trait to find in today’s busy world.  There is one man whose life was defined by this trait and recent events caused me to reflect more deeply on its value and need.  On May 10, 2013, we said goodbye to my father-in-law, a man defined by a life of selfless giving.  Known to most by his nickname “Chic”, he lived his 88 years as a shining example of what generosity truly looks like.  Here was a man whose example has been a challenge to me for over 30 years.

My in-laws both lived their lives giving.  We lost my mother-in-law years ago and even her passing never dampened my father-in-law's willingness to share.  Never once did I see the challenges of aging, financial hardship, or failing health change his spirit.  For years, my in-laws gave freely to those in need.  Whether it was volunteering their time or assisting their children and grandchildren, they never hesitated for a moment to be there.  They always found reserves of strength in giving.  They didn’t have things easy either.  Having started a ranch and tending livestock, their daily lives were hard and the manual labor took a toll on their health.  When they chose to sell the ranch and eventually “retire” to Arizona, it was simply an opportunity to give more.

“Chic” was always the first to lend a helping hand even when it was inconvenient.  He never once weighed the difficulty on himself that would come with his giving.  His generosity has always challenged me.  And there were those that took advantage of him including some closest to him.  Unfortunately for each of them, they now have no way to repay him personally.  My sincerest prayer is his passing will be cause for them to find a way to honor his life by making amends, embracing his spirit, and seeking opportunities to emulate his love of all things living.

I’ve often been perplexed by his selfless and perpetual giving despite disappointment.  People knew they could turn to him and he would willingly give.  I often became angered and upset when it was clear people took him for granted; yet it never dampened his spirit.  Each of these times was a call for me to ponder what special strength he possessed that allowed him to maintain such a positive outlook.  His entire life calls me to a much higher level of generosity.  It is the only way to honor his life.

Thankfully, our world is still full of people like “Chic” if we but look.  These people know that their lives are an eternal testament to the true values that make us human.  As we uttered our goodbyes on Friday in the waning moments of his life when he could no longer speak, it was our turn to thank him once again for an example we should all find ourselves worthy to emulate.

Duane Grove is founder of Connect2Action and an aspiring quiet, reflective servant-leader.  Curious sage in perpetual development connecting us all on a journey of discovery of our highest purpose.  Follow Duane on Twitter @connect2action and connect with him on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Google+.  Learn more about Connect2Action by visiting www.connect2action.com.

You can follow his blogs at:  mindfulperspectives.blogspot.com and connect2action.blogspot.com