What is true generosity? The story about Alan may help us with an answer to the question.   

      Alan is a university student. When he learned that one of his classmates couldn't afford an expensive textbook, he did something out of his natural sense of generosity.   

     
      Alan knew that his classmate was too proud to accept such a book as a present from him. He bought a new copy for 35 pounds. Then he dirtied it up a bit, made a few dog-ears and pencil marks and made it look old. Then he went to his classmate, claiming to have got the book for two pounds in a second-hand bookshop. To make his friend believe him, he showed a receipt for the money by buying himself another book at the same place.
   
     Ten years later, Alan's classmate got to know the truth. He was suspicious at the very beginning, though he didn't force his rich friend to tell the truth. He deeply appreciated Alan's invaluable generosity and the valuable book.    

     The story tells us that true generosity is not a show-off of one's wealth. It offers kindness and love without expecting anything in return.