What is the True Meaning of Philanthropy?
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A true philanthropist shares his or her own knowledge, not because it may make them profit, but because it will contribute value. Poverty is not the greatest calamity. Ignorance is. Sharing of knowledge to bring about good, to aid others in their attempts to achieve higher potential, is the essence of a true philanthropist. Leading by example includes inspiration, fairness, honesty, reliability, and ambition. Every one of these contributes philanthropically to the well being of humanity as a whole. They are infinitely renewable resources that are shared on contact.
Love is the highest form of philanthropy. Love evokes wealth that’s not merely financial gain, but the building of human enrichment. Love declares that we must go beyond our purchasing abilities or financial contributions. It is a form of philanthropy without which all humanity would suffer – no matter how economically rich we may become. Therefore, love is the essential purpose of ‘giving’. To fully understand, consider this story:
In medieval Europe, a man came upon a large construction site. He saw a workman fitting two stones together. "What do you do?" he asked. "I am a stone mason," the man replied. Then he walked over to another worker, who appeared to be engaged in the same task. "What do you do?" he asked. The man replied, "We are building a cathedral."
These two men operated with very different perspectives toward their goal or mission. The first one focused exclusively on the task, without reference to his purpose or his love for that purpose. Whether out of choice or out of ignorance, he wasn’t being nourished by the intangible power Philanthropy. The second worker saw his task in the context of a much larger calling, one that held the power of replenishing his sense of purpose and his love for that purpose. He had chosen to step into the deep boundless ocean of philanthropy. Not by writing a check! Not through guilt. Simply through devotion to a powerful vision of contributing to the creation of benefit.
How do we envision and peruse our philanthropic calling? Do we think primarily in terms of cash flow in, and tithing out? Do we measure our success in terms of revenue, and therefore our contribution based on the ruling of the calculator? If so, we have fallen into a deep trap, one that can make our lives devoid of heart and energy. That is the trap of pursuing what we think is good for us, instead of what we know is great for all of us. Being a true philanthropist, then, begins with acknowledging the spark of creativity and potential that is our gift to declare and share. Radiate outward from that point! Then when you choose to give materially, you will be giving only a small expression of infinite love within.
Be Brave.
Your Friend along the way - Dr. Ellie Drake
About the Author
Dr. Ellie Drake Savvy businesswoman, doctor, in-demand motivational speaker,mother and an inspiration to men and women around the globe. She maintains a demanding schedule of personal appearances as well as a series of web sites, each offering insights and products designed to help individuals achieve their personal best Ellie Drake is down to earth and funny! Visit Be a Millionaire Success
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