Power of Giving by Shawn Dell Joyce on Creators.com

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Power of Giving

We all have heard the old saying that it is better to give than receive. Well, a recent study has proved it scientifically; the real key to happiness is generous giving. In times of economic stress, it is even more important because giving actually builds your wealth and the wealth of the local community.

People who give charitably are 43 percent likelier to say they are "very happy" than non-givers are, and non-givers are 3 1/2 times likelier than givers are to report they are "not happy at all," notes Arthur C. Brooks in his book "Who Really Cares: The Surprising Truth about Compassionate Conservatism."

Brooks also notes that several large studies have found that a senior citizen who volunteers has a 40 percent lower probability of dying in a given year than a person of the same age and health level does.

In a surprising turn, Brooks proves that giving also increases personal, as well as national, prosperity. Brooks quotes a survey that controlled for education, age, race and all the other outside explanations for giving and income increases. The survey proved that a dollar donated to charity was associated with $4.35 in extra income for the giver. About $3.75 of that was generated by the multiplier effect the dollar had in the local economy. At the national level, a 1 percent increase in giving increases the gross domestic product by about $36 billion.

Ancient Greeks understood this concept well and developed the cultural habit of tithing, or donating 10 percent of their incomes to charity. Charitable giving helps build strong communities and families. Giving and volunteering promote bonds of trust among neighbors and help to sustain numerous charities providing critical services in education, health, the arts, the environment and disaster relief.

The most beneficial giving is done anonymously and without any expectations by the giver. Anonymous giving gives you a better sense of personal well-being, increased self-esteem and a better perception of your own wealth.

Those who give tend to be more grateful for what they have and satisfied with their personal wealth instead of seeking more.

Many of us lot our jobs and/or homes this year. In fact, about 1 in 19 Americans is on unemployment benefits, and 1 in 4 children relies on food stamps for the next meal. If you are having a hard time getting into the holiday spirit because you have been affected by the recession, remember that it is especially important to give. Start by listing 25 things you are grateful for, from the food in your belly to the clothes on your back.

Then take the time to write a personal, heartfelt note of thanks to someone who shared time, inspiration or money with you when you needed it. Doing this one simple act reminds you of others' generosity and recalls the feeling of gratitude you felt as the recipient. You are primed and ready to try giving. Here are a few suggestions:

—Slip money anonymously to someone who needs it. No strings should be attached, and you should not expect credit. Can't find a person? Give it to your local food bank instead.

—Holiday workers often hear lots of complaints and little praise. Take time to point out good service to the manager of a store or restaurant. Write a letter praising a service worker (mail deliverer, doorman, building superintendent, clerk, etc.).

—Volunteer your time with local nonprofit organizations. The long recession has gutted the budgets of most nonprofits. They could use some extra help to get through the holidays.

—Practice random acts of kindness on a daily basis. Start by smiling at strangers; give up your seat on the bus; add a quarter to someone's expired parking meter; pay the toll of the guy behind you; never miss an opportunity to praise a child; sit and listen to an elderly person.

Shawn Dell Joyce is an award-winning columnist and founder of the Wallkill River School in Orange County, N.Y. You can contact her at Shawn@ShawnDellJoyce.com. To find out more about Shawn Dell Joyce and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.