This time of year, after the warmth of the holiday season and the glow of giving, I always feel a little tight, a little strapped for cash, but the request for gifts, as we all know, continue to pile up in the mailbox.

Do you think it’s strange that people usually need to be “encouraged” to give to a wonderful cause? Some might feel better words for this would be cajoled, arm-twisted and begged.  But, once we decide to part with the money we feel great about the gift. Do you imagine that when the next time to give rolls around we will remember that warm glow, or will we have to be “encouraged” again?

 Jerold Panas, the author of Asking and many other books about fundraising, feels that naturally generous people live longer and stay healthier. Could this be the Fountain of Youth that has evaded even the most ardent seekers? Don’t you wish we could bottle it and sell it?  We could then donate all the profits to a great cause!