It is heartening that many wealthy families and individuals give generously to philanthropic causes. My concern is that readers may conclude that generosity is the responsibility of the wealthy and the man in the street is not expected to be generous because he does not have a million dollar foundation.

Generosity should not be narrowly defined. Giving does not have to involve money or material things. Giving time and energy is a form of generosity. Many would agree that they do not have enough time to give. So they give the odd amount of money now and then. But that's precisely why giving time is a greater form of generosity than simply money. Giving something you have little of is nobler than giving something you have enough of.

Giving encouragement and kindness is another form of generosity.

During my stay in a hospital recently, I experienced first-hand generous doses of kindness. When I was feeling nauseous, a nurse brought me medicated oil. When I was bedridden, she placed a box of tissues beside my bed so that I can wipe my perspiration conveniently. When I ran out of books to read, she brought me her own. These simple gestures do not cost much in monetary terms. But I appreciated them more than if she had brought me expensive tonics or a fat cheque.

Even the desperately poor can be generous.

Once, Mother Teresa gave some rice to a starving family with young children. The mother took the rice, divided it into two portions and went out with one portion. When she returned, Mother Teresa asked her where she went. She replied that she went to give the rice to her neighbours, who were also starving.

Who is more generous? The person making two million dollars a year giving away half his income, or the starving family giving away half their food? The former may make a bigger impact. But the latter made a greater sacrifice.

We also act generously when we give confidence, share useful knowledge and donate blood. There are many ways to give. We do not always need to open deep pockets. Opening our eyes and hearts are more important.

Felix Ang Kok Hou