Being Generous: The Art of Living

by Lucinda Vardey and John Dalla Costa

Vardey and Dalla Costa, a married couple, challenge a common habit of treating generosity as something reserved for holidays or disasters. They argue real generosity has to become a daily practice instead.

Beyond the theory and the science of generosity, a wealth of inspiration is present in a collection of profiles of past and present icons of generosity. Being Generous focuses on ordinary relationships rather than grand donations. Children, coworkers, parents, and strangers all become opportunities for genuine giving.

• Reframing “I’m sorry” and “thank you” as generous acts themselves
• Asking “What do you need?” as a simple generosity practice
• Making generosity a daily mode of being, not an occasional gesture

Small, consistent generosity can quietly reshape relationships, community, and character over time. Being Generous concludes with a practical action plan that lays out concrete steps that can guide readers toward lives of greater giving.