Just came across this gem of an observation on the, ahem, stimulating effects of charitable giving:

“A number of studies have concluded that giving affects our brain chemistry. People who give often report feelings of euphoria, which psychologists have referred to as the Helper’s High. They believe that charitable activity induces endorphins that produce a very mild version of the sensations people get from drugs like morphine and heroin.” — Arthur C. Brooks “A Nation of Givers” The American March 31, 2008