The generous and bold have the best lives.

The proverb links “the best lives” not to comfort or longevity but to a moral and psychological quality of living. “Generous” suggests openness—sharing resources, attention, and goodwill—while “bold” implies the willingness to act decisively despite risk. Together they describe a life oriented outward: engaged with others and unafraid of consequence. The saying implies that such traits produce richer experience and deeper satisfaction, because generosity builds community and meaning, and boldness expands one’s possibilities. It also carries an ethical claim: the good life is inseparable from virtues that benefit others, not merely private success.