Would you give away your most precious possession? Something that held tremendous meaning and personal value to you?

Giving things away can be a meaningful and fulfilling experience, especially when the act of giving is done with the intention of helping others or making a positive impact in the world. Finding meaning in giving can be a personal and subjective experience, and what brings meaning to one person may not be the same for another. The most important thing is to give with the intention of making a positive difference, whether it’s to a person, a cause, or the world at large.

In a world that often emphasizes acquiring and accumulating possessions, the act of giving can sometimes be overlooked or undervalued. However, as we navigate life on the right side of 40, we often find ourselves seeking deeper connections and a greater sense of purpose. This is where the act of giving takes on a special significance.

The Act of Giving: A Path to Personal Fulfillment

There’s a profound joy that comes with giving without expecting anything in return. Whether it’s a simple act of kindness, sharing your time and skills, or even parting with a cherished possession, giving is a transformative experience. It’s an opportunity to connect with your compassionate side and make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.

Defining Your Most Precious Possession

For some, the most precious possession may be a family heirloom, a piece of art, or a collection of sentimental items. For others, it might be their time, knowledge, or expertise. The beauty of giving is that it can take various forms, and it’s deeply personal. It’s about what holds the most value and significance to you.

The Intent to Make a Positive Difference

The true essence of giving lies in the intention behind it. When you give with the genuine desire to make a positive difference, you not only impact the recipient but also enrich your own life. The act of giving becomes a source of inner contentment and satisfaction.

Cultivating a Giving Spirit

As we embrace life on the right side of 40, we have the opportunity to cultivate a giving spirit that extends beyond material possessions. It’s about being there for friends and family, Volunteering for a cause that resonates with us, and sharing our Wisdom and experience to guide others.

A Powerful Personal Story of Giving

Mitzi Perdue gave away her engagement ring (well, sold it at auction for more than 1 million dollars) to help fund causes that hold great meaning for her. I asked her why she would donate such a meaningful piece of jewelry started with a realization she had as a ten year old.

In Mitzi’s words:

“My father had an office in the house in our home and I was a little bit surprised as I walked into his office and I saw that he had all these books and ledgers that he was studying. So I asked him what he was doing.

And he said:

“I’m looking at requests for charitable donations”. And I said, “But you know, you could be out playing golf or doing something fun. It’s a weekend.” And he said, “the most pleasure that my Money has ever given me is in giving it away.” 

“It was then that I realized he was doing what he most enjoyed doing. He was giving it away.”

Ms. Perdue then explained her late husband Mr. Frank Perdue, was the most philanthropic person she’d ever met. He reminded her of her own father. His attitude for giving was to give without any strings attached. He gave anonymously and in some cases publicly (the Perdue School of Business) when he was convinced the branding would help attract students. Generally, his giving was private, and not for ego, but to do good in the world. 

Still, how can a personal item of such emotional importance become an item to give? After all, the ring was famous. Ms. Perdue realized the philanthropic gesture of selling her engagement ring to help make the world a better place was a way she could include her late husband in her generative act, which made her feel closer than ever to him.  And, in doing so, the saying “tis better to give than to receive” rings true.

Mitzi Perdue 

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Originally Published on https://deborahheiserphd.substack.com/

Deborah Heiser, PhD The Right Side of 40

Deborah Heiser, PhD is an Applied Developmental Psychologist with a specialty in Aging. I'm a researcher, TEDx speaker, contributor for Psychology Today, Substack blogger, CEO of The Mentor Project, and adjunct professor of Psychology.