111: Reconnect with the Joy of Generosity

"...O let us live in joy, although having nothing! In joy let us live like spirits of light!.."

This week, I’m reading a quote from the Dhammapada, written down in the 1st century BC. 

Reflection questions:

• First, when was the last time you stepped back to view the greater horizon of your mission? Maybe it's time to do that again—to reconnect with the love, health, peace, and joy of what you get to fundraise for.

• Second, think about your donors. Who are the people you could share that joy with—not to cultivate, ask, or steward them, but simply to have a conversation filled with genuine excitement about your mission? Who's coming to mind right now?

Reflection on quote:

I read a reflection on generosity from various world religions and science.  One insight comes from Buddhism in how we show up in the spaces where we work.

Working with nonprofits across every sector imaginable—from arts and culture to human services, conservation to animal welfare—never gets old. My reaction is always the same: "You get to do what and raise money for that? Your mission is incredible!" When people ask what I do for work, I find myself talking about the amazing missions I get to support rather than fundraising tactics or strategies.
Here's what I've noticed: we get so laser-focused on the next campaign deadline or goal that we lose sight of the bigger picture. That tunnel vision weighs us down and leads straight to burnout. But when we step back and look at the greater horizon of our work, something shifts. We remember that we're bringing love, health, peace, and joy to our communities.

Think about it—you're living out love through arts, culture, or historic preservation. You're creating health for clients, communities, and people in your care. You're building peace for those in conflict or helping people find safety. And you're cultivating joy through the abundance of generosity, giving donors the chance to experience that same deep satisfaction.

This work has entered the public domain.

What do you think? Send me a text.

To explore small town capital campaign coaching deeper and to schedule an free explore coaching call, visit ServingNonprofits.com.

Music credit: Woeisuhmebop