#LearningGenerosity

This phenomenon cannot be contributed to some element in our water. No, this happens not just in Virginia. This happens all over the USA. There is an element in the hearts of USA citizens and it is called generosity.

A lady came by my register Friday with a cart pretty full of duplicate articles of shampoo and deodorant and toothpaste, disposable razors, shaving creme and such. I began scanning and as I got closer to the end, she asked if I would put the last two items on a separate receipt. I must have had a quizzical look on my face as I agreed for she went on to explain that the last two items were gifts for her granddaughters. All the rest were for a homeless shelter which  provides much for homeless people but no personal care stuff. She had noticed this need and of her own initiative was providing for these people. It was not a little bill.

Several weeks ago another lady came by with duplicate items of food. There was peanut butter and coffee and canned vegetables. She was taking advantage of sales our store was holding and stocking up on things for her church's food pantry. This was no little bill. Then there was the couple who had quite a few items that would take time to scan and bag and behind them, standing about four feet away was a gentleman with one item in his hand. The husband of the couple stepped back and grabbed the deodorant from this guys hands and placed it in my hand so I would scan it as a part of his own purchases and then handed it back to this shocked man telling him it was taken care of. It was like he was apologizing for making him wait for me to get through all his purchases, so he just gave him the deodorant.

Second Corinthians 9:11 says that we will be enriched in every way so that we can always be generous. First Timothy 1:18 tells us to be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always ready to share with others. Then there is Second Corinthians 9 :7 stating that 'God loves a person who gives cheerfully and will generously provide all you need so you have plenty left over to share with others'.

I don't know these people personally but I was impressed by their generosity. I don't know their financial status, but no matter, these people seemed happy to give. There is a deep joy that comes from helping people and being generous whether it be with what money can buy or a real smile or an encouraging word or a pat on the back. Check where you have been enriched and make it a priority to find someone who needs that thing or feeling and give it away. Three things will result, first, needs will be met and second, you will see God provide so you can give more and third you will experience joy. No sparkling water will make that happen!