The Gift of Giving
Jenny Santi on Purpose, Generosity, and Connectio
Inspired by the words of Pablo Picasso, “The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away,” this month we reflect centers on how giving transforms both the giver and the receiver. Jenny Santi, philanthropist, author, and founder of Saint Partners, brings this truth to life through her work guiding individuals and organizations to rediscover the deeper meaning behind giving.
Jenny’s philosophy challenges the notion that generosity begins with wealth. Instead, she believes it begins with awareness, of our own gifts, and of the needs around us. Her insights remind us that giving is not limited to financial contributions; it includes time, compassion, creativity, and presence. In her work with global changemakers, Jenny emphasizes that giving is a practice of alignment, where what we love and what the world needs intersect. This perspective transforms generosity into something intimate and personal, grounded in purpose rather than obligation.
Through her book The Giving Way to Happiness, Jenny explores how acts of giving create a ripple effect of joy, fulfillment, and connection. Research she shares reveals that generosity is linked to improved well-being and emotional resilience, reinforcing that giving benefits both sides. Yet beyond the science, Jenny’s stories illuminate something timeless, the human need to feel useful, to matter, and to contribute to something larger than ourselves. When we give, we affirm that our lives have meaning, and we help others recognize theirs too.
In her episode, Jenny sits down with Deepak Chopra for a thoughtful conversation that expands the meaning of generosity beyond material giving. Together, they explore how compassion, mindfulness, and awareness are forms of activism that begin within each of us. Their discussion underscores that true giving arises from connection to ourselves, to others, and to the world around us. This exchange captures the essence of the One World Activists series, which brings together visionaries who are redefining what it means to make a difference.
The theme of The Gift of Giving this November is an invitation to live with intention, empathy, and connection. Jenny Santi’s story reminds us that giving is not an act of charity, it is an act of humanity. Each of us holds something of value to share, whether it is our time, our voice, or our talents. When we give our gifts to the world, we fulfill the very purpose of life itself.
To hear more from Jenny Santi on how giving shapes identity, purpose, and happiness, watch her full episode on CORE.
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