Gratitude and generosity go hand in hand—the more we appreciate our lives, the more we want to give to others.In Radical Generosity , M. J. Ryan provides tools for expressing thanks. In the best-selling Attitudes of Gratitude , she taught us the inner work of realizing the many blessings we take for granted. Now, in Radical Generosity, she presents her latest examination of the virtues we need to cultivate for the twenty-first century and takes a look at what creates it, what blocks it, and what the practice of generosity can bring to our lives.In a series of short, heart-felt essays, Ryan encourages us all to stop living from what she calls “the ledger sheet mentality” of obligatory gifting and to begin giving from the overflow of a loving heart. She asks readers to consider where and how they are stingy as well as where they are meant to give, and to contemplate all the types of possible generosity, because ultimately the giving of time, energy, kind words, loving gestures, and forgiveness may matter more than any amount of money.
MJ Ryan is one of the creators of the New York Times bestselling Random Acts of Kindness series and the author of The Happiness Makeover (nominated for the 2005 Books for Better Living award in the Motivational category), Attitudes of Gratitude, The Power of Patience, Trusting Yourself, The Giving Heart, and 365 Health and Happiness Boosters, among other titles. Altogether, there are 1.75 million copies of her titles in print.
The author gives of herself quite generously. She has a great ease and an eager generosity in her writing and sharing. I did find myself struggling at times to follow her writing style. In her earnest desire to share the information and stories that she tells, it is a bit of confusing chronology. All in all, it is a wonderful resource for learning the complex simplicity of living a radically generous life. I do recommend the book to those who are struggling with the complexities of generosity and want to know more.