Generosity is an act of mutual benefit, benefiting the recipient as well as the giver by evolving their inner state of being. Its effects are boundless, as the pure intention of creating peace and offering loving-kindness radiates to the world. It is reciprocal energetically in that it improves the conditions for the recipient, and also generates and conditions the mind of the giver, cutting through their self-centeredness. In this way, both the recipient and the giver relax, are happier, and therefore inspired to give to others.

Contemporary research has explored the tangible and physiological outcomes of generosity, demonstrating that generous deeds activate the same parts of the human brain that are lit up when we feel rewarded and content. In the language of behavioral economics, the result of selfless, generous actions is a “warm glow.” This “warm glow” aftereffect surpasses any personal loss of resources—time, energy, money—that generous acts may cost. Several research projects have been able to map the portions of the brain that are specifically activated by generous behavior. It is quite amazing that modern science has been able to document the centuries-old wisdom of the bodhisattva!

Excerpt From
Loving Life As It Is
Chakung Jigme Wangdrak

Image: The Juvenile Scrap-Book for 1849