Generosity Day, Winter Beach painting by Everglades artist Jo-Ann Sanborn

Winter Beach, 2012, Jo-Ann Sanborn

acrylic on canvas, 24"x36"

 

We've had such beautiful weather that the beach as been as lovely as ever, although the water is colder than I like!  I'll get back to my daily paintings soon, but have been working like mad on some larger things, and am finishing up a few.  Winter Beach is among them.  

Tomorrow is Valentine's day and if you are reading this, know that I love you very much!  While love is certainly in the air, there's a new wave of feeling about this day.  You may not be aware of it yet, but Valentine's Day is also Generosity Day. 

A group of philanthropists and economists are asking us to reconsider the often false and forced romanticism of smarmy greeting cards and overpriced roses and to open our minds to a day of generosity. 

Generosity Day is the idea of having one day of sharing generously with everyone who asks.  You can learn more about it here or hear Sasha Dichter's TED lecture about this concept here.

Just be generous and see how it feels.  Practice saying “Yes.”  Generosity Day is a day about love through human connections and interactions.  It may not be easy to put our intellect, upbringing, and selfishness aside for one day, but if you can, it may bring about a positive change for others and come back to you in ways you don't expect.

When you get it right it feels right.  Here's an example of the complications of giving. What would you do? 

So, enjoy your chocolates and roses.  You can also think about saying "YES!" when you are asked to give something more. Thinking may lead to action, and action may mean changing lives. 

So much philanthropy centers around the human condition, but it's my concern in that we will have clean, breathable, natural landscapes to enjoy into the future.  Join me in donating even a small amount, say $5.00 to the Everglades Foundation this Generosity Day, February 14th.  Just say "YES"!