Rung Two thoughts: Shepherding frugally, Giving generously

Reader’s note: Reminder that Rung Two is “The achievement of one’s objectives requires a good plan and consistent effort.” This considers the difference between the Franklin virtue of Frugality and the Mussar soul-trait of Generosity.

In the world I live in, money is the currency about which all things flow out of, into and through. The systems fail through lack of currencies of trust, wisdom, community, compassion and strength, but it usually comes down to moving dollars and cents somewhere.

Franklin worked hard, got rich, and then gave away money, managed investments to some degree, and devoted himself, mostly, to public service. He started libraries and fire departments because, sure, they benefited him, because he sometimes lived in the area, but mostly because he thought there was something more important than collecting and having money—using it well was his stated focus.

He didn’t say, don’t spend money. He said, “Make no expense but to do good to others or yourself; i.e., waste nothing.”

Frugality, for Franklin, is shepherding resources: If you’re going to spend it, spend it well. Money is meant to do good, so be smart, use all your faculties, follow your heart, and do good with it.

Generosity in Mussar is a bigger concept, because Mussar comes out of a religious tradition focusing on love of, and obedience to, God.

If you are stingy, says Mussar, pay attention to the moments when your impulse is to give and rush to give. Follow that impulse.

If you give too much away, says Mussar, be like Rav Kook, but don’t be so much like Rav Kook. There’s a story shared by Alan Morinis in Everyday Holiness about the once-chief rabbi of Israel. Rav Kook would give all his salary away to those who couldn’t secure loans at the bank. His argument back to the board who paid him? I can get loans on my credit, but they can’t. But the Rav’s wife and family suffered in semi-poverty. The board eventually decided to give his salary directly to his wife, not the rabbi.

The impulse to give when asked is a good one. Trust that you give to others, and God will keep you safe and bring good things back to you.

But don’t be stupid, say the Mussar masters.

Give, but don’t give it all away. And take care of your responsibilities first.

Generosity in Mussar and Frugality in Franklin’s estimation both require wisdom. In order to know your money is going to good, you need to investigate and be smart. And if you give to others so much it’s bad for you, that violates Franklin’s tenet. In the same way, Judaism extols the charitable and giving like Rav Kook, but great men and women may find their strengths become faults without balance.

Wherever you fall, less giving, more giving, less responsible, more responsible … try to lean into the other way, if you’re out of balance.