Generosity of Spirit

[Linda196]

I don't know how many saw Ashton Kutcher's speech at the Teen Choice Awards, I only saw it because someone told me I should look it up.......I'm not much of a TV-watcher or movie-goer, and can't say that I've ever been a "fan" of his, but his speech led me to a whole new appreciation of this young man.

In the course of an overall uplifting oration, he discussed the essential of generosity in being a "sexy" person, and it struck me that, by substituting "attractive" for "sexy", he was saying something I've believed most of my life........it's what's inside, not outside, that makes one attractive. It was nice to hear it from "the younger generation".

That leads me to my thoughts in this post. Generosity of Spirit allows us to discuss conflicting opinions without arguing or attacking another's views. It allows us to graciously accept that sometimes we simply have to agree to disagree, but still respect another's beliefs. It leads us to  caution ourselves before even beginning a road that might (or probably will) lead to conflict. It allows us to remain untouched by someone else's opinion without taking it personally. It allows us to remain positive in the face of negativity, reminding us that another's beliefs and attitudes are based on their own experience, some of which are beyond our comprehension and far removed from our own life history. And finally, having read or listened to others opinions, and stated our own, it allows us to move on, leading to bigger and better discussions of other things that may have benefit to all.

Spiritual generosity also allows us to see things from a more positive aspect, and not dwell on the negative, the old "every cloud has a silver lining" attitude, which is sometimes difficult I know. Sometimes finding something good, or humourous or even twisted, in a situation, allows us to laugh, step back and see things in a new light.

One of the little message that appears in the news feed at the top of the page may seem insignificant, but it's one of the motivating factors of this community:
These message boards are a friendly helpful place, please post with thoughtful consideration of others. Thank-you.

In a continued effort to promote the goals of thoughtful consideration, we (your staff and moderators)will become even more proactive in editing and removing posts that do not abide by the rules of this community, but be assured that no one other than posters who make an occasional slip will be aware of removals. There never has been or never will be public comment on the removal of inappropriate posts by staff, and, as always, posters will be encouraged to change or remove their posts themselves first unless there is a significantly grievous statement (defying law or universal moral standards for example) which I doubt will ever happen.

[Sleepy In Seattle]

Well-said and thank you...although, I gotta say...Ashton Kutcher being generous of spirit is just icing on the "sexy cake"...
     

[Nancy60]

So well stated Linda. Thank you!  I think that generosity of spirit found on this forum is what endears it to me. I need the helpfulness and positivity found here to help me deal with chronic illness. Thanks for providing us with such a safe friendly and helpful place.

Nancy

[Aquarius]

Well stated Linda.

It is easy to be "not nice" when faced with life's difficulties, disappointments and aggravations whether caused by others or our own circumstances. 

It is more challenging to be a consistently kind person, to adhere to a high standard of thoughtful behavior even in turmoil. 

Kindness and generosity of spirit are the essence of class. 

[Meld256]

As usual, Linda, your words ring true and are welcomed. You have the gift! 

One of the best things about this forum is that we can discuss, possibly disagree, and still have consideration for the other opinion. None of us know what another's story or history has been entirely so keeping that in mind is important for us all.

If we take a moment to think when we see a comment that upsets us, we can make a more considerate response, or sometimes making no response is best.

I compare this to some other social media now-we hear about Twitter accounts that sports stars rip off a line about a teammate, or Facebook when a person complains about their job by name. Never good! I never see us getting to that point, but if we all think before we type we can keep our motto of respect and consideration for all.

Wishing you all a blessed day,
Melinda

[warmwaters]

One of the things I treasure about this forum is the sincerity of almost all the participants - a willingness to listen, a willingness to help, stirred nicely with a good portion of humour.

I know that our leaders help us stay on track with that spirit both by example, and the occasional need to edit a post - so thanks.

And thanks to everyone here, from whom I have learned a lot.