"You don't have to be a millionaire to support the causes you care about." This was what Amy Pirozzolo, head of donor engagement at Fidelity Charitable, had to say about charity during the Christmas season. In the USA, a recent survey by Fidelity Charitable found that 54 percent of parents believed starting a family increased the priority of “giving” in their lives, with 82 percent of those parents saying that children had an influential impact on the types or numbers of organizations they support.

I do not think the Indian results will be any different.

As I look through the internet, the recent trend shows a shift in belief. Many of the new generation think that Christmas should shift its focus from extravagant gifting to having more emphasis on charity. In a world brimming with materialism, this is a welcome trend. Redirecting the spirit of Christmas towards acts of kindness and generosity would foster a greater sense of community in the younger generations and might balance a few of the negative effects of digital addiction, which isolates them to some extent from the community. Instead of excessive spending on gifts, redirecting resources into charitable endeavors allows us to address pressing societal issues. The culture of giving will help make a meaningful impact on the lives of the less fortunate.

I strongly believe that sharing with the underprivileged of society should be recognized as the true measure of wealth. True prosperity lies not in amassing material possessions but in uplifting others. Generosity towards those in need reflects a richness of spirit that rises beyond its monetary value. In a society that often equates wealth with opulence, redefining affluence as the capacity to make a positive contribution to the lives of others will be a powerful paradigm shift. 

While we still have much to traverse on this path, the Millennials and Gen Z are showing us the way. We can learn a lot from them, and I have no shame in admitting that compassion is one of the top items on the list.

Being wealthy extends beyond the confines of a fat bank balance. It encompasses the richness of experiences, relationships, and the positive influence one can exert on the world. A truly wealthy individual contributes to the well-being of others, recognizing that the true essence of wealth lies in shared prosperity. 

This is how we can redefine our understanding of affluence and cultivate a more compassionate and fulfilling holiday season.