KarmaTube Video

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Be Selfish, Be Generous

67,927 views

The Dalai Lama once said that the most generous act there is, compassion, is actually a selfish act: "If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion."

What does generosity mean to you? Why do you give? What can you give? Here are some thoughts from a group of volunteers for ServiceSpace, an organization that focuses on the practice of selfless generosity and small acts of kindness. How would you answer these questions for yourself?

Be The Change

This film about generosity was itself a gift made by filmmakers David and Hi-Jin Hodge. Express your gratitude by writing them a thank you note!

Explore ServiceSpace and its Smile Card project. Perform an act of kindness, reflect on the experience and share your story.

The greatest gift you can give anyone is being the best version of yourself in any given moment. You are capable of more than you know -- try it and see what happens!

Reflections (32)

jasmine

The idea is inspiring. I do it all the time but I see that people take it as "people-pleasing" ! OR a sign of weakness!!
The only thing I didn't like about the video is Mother Theresa reference. They are many other great people besides Theresa / Gandhi (who in reality have not been transparent).

Becky

Thank you for this awe inspiring video on generosity!

Oulli

Thank you for reminding me what's important in life.

Tom

My first thought is selfish and generosity doesn't sound very generous. We decided to add selfless and the expression seemed to have more flow. "Today you will learn how you can be selfish through being being selfless and generous.

We have an advisory period once a week at the high school. We will make up a lesson using the Ripple Effect and the Generosity video. At the end of the lesson we will have students have the option of picking up a smile card and/or writing an appreciation (every other Friday at lunch students can write an appreciation and the Interpersonal Communications/Peer Helping class will pass them out). Thank you for sharing this with 900 students at West Valley HS.

Madeleine

I know that feeling that generosity leaves in me and I need to be reminded of it. In this world, we are often encouraged to be selfish and goal oriented and we receive cold treatment from others. Therefore, films like this remind us of what is truly "real" in this world.

melissa

Thank you for making an authetic video about the human spirit - it made me smile and filled my soul :) I am excited to notice how our community will transform as this movement continues to pick up momentum.

Bradley

Generosity makes one's life meaningful.

David

Generosity can be the most selfish act of all. FathersWeek.org

Sherry

Wonderful! Love the sense of community!

Haricharan Das

Generosity is the practical practice of supporting your infinite Self.
Important and lovely video.

sridevi

beautiful!!

Jeffrey F. Dean

The generosity