Giving from the warm hands of love vs the cold hands of death

The Rule of Three struck recently.

• A neighbor had to explain an adage to her colleague.
• I had to explain the meaning of a quote in a group text.
• And an old saying or quote popped up in an article, giving variations and explanations.

The saying?

It’s goes by different phrasing, but is generally:

It’s better to give from the warm hands of love and not the cold hands of death.

Sometimes it’s shortened to:

• Better to give with a warm hand than with a cold one.
• It’s best to give when your hand is still warm.
• Giving with a warm hand.

Professional fundraisers might find it useful to remember this saying as they plan conversations with major donors.

Instead of trying to direct projects from the grave, some donors may find great joy in being able to witness the transformation their gift makes.

I talk about the saying in today’s video.