We’ve probably all seen it: an array of inspirational quotes or ideas, on yellow post-it’s, on a cubicle wall. I know I can’t resist taking a peek, when I do. And I don’t mind having a few motivational tidbits around, for myself on “one of those days” or to share with others in formal talks or a casual conversation. We compiled a list about philanthropy for Getting to Giving, and thought we’d share them with you here. Enjoy!
You make a living by what you get. You make a life by what you give.
- Winston Churchill
One must know not just how to accept a gift, but with what grace to share it.
- Maya Angelou
A man’s true wealth is the good he does in this world.
- Mohammed
And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these [is] charity.
- King James Bible, 1 Corinthians 13:13
I am afraid the only safe rule is to give more than we can spare… If our charities do not pinch or hamper us, they are too small. There ought to be some things we should like to do and cannot do because our charitable expenditures exclude them.
- C. S. Lewis
To give away money is an easy matter and in any man’s power. But to decide to whom to give it and how large and when, and for what purpose and how, is neither in every man’s power nor an easy matter.
- Aristotle
It is one of the most beautiful compensations of this life that no man can sincerely try to help another without helping himself…Serve and thou shall be served.
- Ralph Waldo Emerson
If you want happiness for an hour, take a nap.
If you want happiness for a day, go fishing.
If you want happiness for a year, inherit a fortune.
If you want happiness for a lifetime, help somebody.
- Chinese proverb
I don’t know what your destiny will be, but one thing I do know: the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve.
- Albert Schweitzer
He who allows his day to pass by without practicing generosity and enjoying life’s pleasures is like a blacksmith’s bellows – he breathes but does not live.
- Sanskrit Proverb
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.
- Margaret Mead
Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.
- Dr. Seuss, from The Lorax
I’ve always respected those who tried to change the world for the better, rather than just complain about it.
- Michael Bloomberg
The progress of the world will call for the best that all of us have to give.
- Mary MacLeod Bethune
If you want to change the world, be that change.
- Mohandas Ghandi