A generous person is certainly a good person. But do we always know exactly what this word means? Is generosity simply kindness towards others, or is it something more, a set of qualities that not everyone is capable of possessing? And what needs to be done to learn to show generosity in everyday life?
In art, the ruler who overshadowed his subjects with a laurel wreath was traditionally an allegory of generosity. The figure sat on a throne, was wrapped in a royal cloak and possessed the symbols of power generally accepted in those days: a scepter or a sword. Thus, initially the trait of generosity was attributed to people who were noble and invested with money and power, since it was they who were able to show this quality in relation to the poor and destitute.
Today, of course, the significance of generosity is much broader. Benevolent can be not only the ruler or boss, showing this quality in relation to his subordinates or people, one way or another dependent on him. Magnanimity, no doubt, can be shown by any person, regardless of his age, gender and income level. How to distinguish a generous deed from simple kindness? Kindness is inherent in man towards all people. If someone does good, there are no boundaries for his actions. As for generosity, it manifests itself as a good deed towards those who do not fully deserve such behavior. This does not mean that a good person cannot be magnanimous, simply quality is much more complicated than simple kindness and requires much greater courage and willpower.
The magnanimous ruler has mercy on his enemies, granting them life. Being one of the Christian virtues, this quality gives a person even more power than simple strength and courage. Indeed, having spared his enemy, having forgiven the offender and having mercy on the guilty, a magnanimous man shows his strength of spirit, his ability to overcome insults and conventions and refuse revenge for the benefit of others and love for his neighbor. Not everyone is able to consciously commit such an act, and therefore it is magnanimity that has long been considered one of the highest qualities inherent in man.
Of course, it is not easy - to show generosity towards someone who does not deserve it, but if you feel the strength in yourself to follow the path of virtue and the true beliefs of kindness and humanity, it is simply necessary to learn magnanimity. Start doing good deeds, learn to forgive and not hold evil or resentment. Be generous first of all to yourself and this will teach you to show this quality in relation to others.
