dr. melanie ross mills

What is the meaning of generosity? Generosity is the act of giving something — time, money, attention, care, or resources — without expecting anything in return. It’s more than just handing over something you have; it's about offering a part of yourself to another, willingly and freely. It often reflects a mindset of abundance — the belief that you have enough to share, whether that’s material or emotional. At its core, generosity is relational — it creates a bridge between people. It’s an act of recognition: I see you, I care, I want your well-being too. Why do we give? People give for many reasons, and most of them are layered: Empathy: We feel someone else's need or pain, and we want to help. Connection: Giving strengthens bonds — between friends, families, communities, or even strangers. Purpose: Giving often makes life feel more meaningful. Moral or spiritual belief: Many religions and philosophies encourage generosity as a path to a good life. Gratitude: Sometimes we give because we've received, and we want to pass it on. Personal fulfillment: Giving can make us feel good, useful, or aligned with our values. Why don’t we give? This is just as important to understand: Fear or scarcity: We may feel we don’t have enough — money, time, energy — and we’re afraid of losing what little we do have. Cynicism: We may doubt that our giving will help or be appreciated. Self-focus: At times, we may be too caught up in our own struggles or desires to notice the needs of others. Burnout or emotional fatigue: If we've given too much without renewal, we may shut down. Lack of awareness: Sometimes we simply don’t see the opportunity or need. Not giving doesn’t make someone a bad person. Often it’s a sign that something within us needs care before we can be generous again. Is it OK that I give because it makes me feel better about myself? Does that count? Yes — it absolutely counts. Feeling good about giving is not only natural; it’s often a sign that your actions are aligned with your values. It feels right to you. The key is this: Are you giving to genuinely help or connect — or are you giving only to feel superior or to relieve guilt? Even if it starts as a self-focused act, generosity has a way of reshaping us. It pulls us outward. Over time, the "feel-good" part often becomes less about ego and more about genuine joy in connection and impact. So yes, if giving makes you feel better about yourself, let that be part of your reason — not a reason for shame. In what ways does generosity impact our hearts? Generosity can be transformative. It softens the heart. When we give, especially without strings, we practice openness and vulnerability. It expands us. Generosity stretches our empathy, our sense of belonging, and our connection to humanity. It heals. Giving can ease loneliness, resentment, or self-absorption. It reorients us toward others. It grounds us in purpose. Generosity can be a quiet form of rebellion against a world obsessed with taking, consuming, or winning. But generosity also asks for balance. If we give without boundaries, or if we give to earn worth, it can lead to exhaustion. Healthy generosity comes from wholeness, not depletion. Generosity is giving freely, with heart. We give for connection, meaning, empathy, and growth. We don’t give when we feel fear, fatigue, or disconnection. Giving because it feels good is valid — and often leads to deeper giving. Generosity impacts our hearts by softening, healing, and opening them — when it flows from a place of willingness and care. If generosity has been on your mind lately, maybe it’s because some part of you is being drawn toward greater connection or wholeness — and that's something worth listening to. #SeeingTheGood #LeilaMeacham #author #DrMel #CommunityImpact #GoodNewsOnly #PositiveChange #MakingADifference #Inspiration #SocialGood #Nonprofit #CommunityHeroes #EverydayHeroes #DallasCommunity #UpliftingContent #DrMelanieRossMills

🎙️ "Welcome to Seeing the Good! I'm Dr. Mel — and I'm so glad you're here. Each episode, we shine a light on the people making a real difference in our communities. From quiet acts of kindness to bold moves for change, we're celebrating those who inspire, uplift, and remind us of the good all around us. Let’s dive in!" #SeeingTheGood #LeilaMeacham #author #DrMel #CommunityImpact #GoodNewsOnly #PositiveChange #MakingADifference #Inspiration #SocialGood #Nonprofit #CommunityHeroes #EverydayHeroes #DallasCommunity #UpliftingContent #DrMelanieRossMills

Multiple-time New York Times best-selling author (Roses, Dragonfly, Somerset, Tumbleweeds, and more) Leila Meacham and internationally known Relational Health Expert Dr. Melanie Ross Mills were not just cousins — they shared a bond that reached far beyond family. Theirs was a deeply meaningful connection rooted in love, mentorship, and mutual respect. ​ With no children of her own, Leila lovingly embraced Melanie as her “Baby Sprite.” In return, Melanie cherished Leila as her “Mama Sprite.” Their relationship was one of profound influence — Leila served as Melanie’s mentor, role model, and unwavering source of inspiration. She guided Melanie not only in her career, but in her personal growth, always encouraging her to follow her dreams, recognize her worth, and “listen to that small, still voice” that urged her to take bold steps forward. ​ Leila often told Melanie, “When I’m gone, you will be my voice.” And she meant it. She entrusted Melanie with the responsibility of carrying forward her legacy — a testament to the deep trust and love they shared. One special way that legacy continues is through the privilege of making charitable donations on behalf of the Leila Meacham Fund. This commitment is more than a duty — it’s a reflection of Melanie’s deep love for Leila’s life and work, and her profound sense of responsibility to honor and amplify the legacy left in her care. #SeeingTheGood #LeilaMeacham #author #DrMel #CommunityImpact #GoodNewsOnly #PositiveChange #MakingADifference #Inspiration #SocialGood #Nonprofit #CommunityHeroes #EverydayHeroes #DallasCommunity #UpliftingContent #DrMelanieRossMills

Tired of the negativity? Good news is out there—you just have to know where to look. I’m Dr. Mel, and I’m on a mission to discover the incredible people creating the biggest impact in our communities. We’re going behind the scenes to meet the visionaries, see lives truly being changed, and celebrate the everyday heroes. ​ This is more than just a web series; it’s a movement! It's also proof that seeing the good is where change begins. Get ready to be inspired! Subscribe and follow to join the mission and let us know: Who is creating the good in your community? #SeeingTheGood #LeilaMeacham #author #DrMel #CommunityImpact #GoodNewsOnly #PositiveChange #MakingADifference #Inspiration #SocialGood #Nonprofit #CommunityHeroes #EverydayHeroes #DallasCommunity #UpliftingContent #DrMelanieRossMills