Mum’s generosity ensured that as adults we never became too attached to, or attracted by money.

I learnt from her that before you can get, you have to give, and that money is like a river - if you try to block it up and dam it (i.e. cling on to it), then, like a dammed river, the water will go stagnant and stale, and your life will feaster. If you keep the stream moving, and keep giving stuff and money away, wherever you can, then the river and the rewards will keep flowing in.

I love the quote she once gave me: ‘When supply seems to have dried up, look around you quickly for something to give away.’ It is a law of the universe: to get good things you must first give away good things. (And of course this applies to love and friendship, as well.)

Bear Grylls — Mud, Sweat and Tears