Most people, if they were generous, were so because they thought life was short and that one must make the most of it. Sid Baxter was generous because he knew that life was long. It went on and on even when you had no use for it anymore. It was happiness, not life, that was short, and when it visited - in the form of a fine evening spent talking with a friend - he honoured it.
Interpretation
True generosity comes from understanding the value of life's experiences and moments of happiness.
This quote emphasizes that most people practice generosity due to the perception that life is fleeting, prompting them to make the most of their time. In contrast, Sid Baxter's generosity stems from a deeper wisdom, recognizing that life is long and filled with moments of happiness that should be cherished and honored, particularly in the presence of friends.
In practice
In a speech about community service, one might quote this to inspire others to appreciate and honor moments of happiness.
I play until my fingers are blue and stiff from the cold, and then I keep on playing. Until I'm lost in the music. Until I am the music--notes and chords, the melody and harmony. It hurts, but it's okay because when I'm the music, I'm not me. Not sad. Not afraid. Not desperate. Not guilty.
Slow thinking has the feeling of something you do. It's deliberate.
Nobody will laugh long who deals much with opium: its pleasures even are of a grave and solemn complexion.
And let it direct your passion with reason, that your passion may livethrough its own daily resurrection, and like the phoenix rise above its own ashes.
The truth for sure, _x000D_ when it arrives, _x000D_ will make you smile. _x000D_ If it doesn't, _x000D_ you should seek _x000D_ a deeper truth.
I am not a child, I think for myself. No man can think for me.
When I get an idea I start at once building it up in my imagination. I change the construction, make improvements and operate the device in my mind. It is absolutely immaterial to me whether I run my turbine in my thought or test it in my shop. I even note if it is out of balance.
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