Some people I have met in my life hold to a belief that is very peculiar to me: that the purpose of financial wealth is to provide for a life of ease and luxury.
What I find very strange and quite tragic about this belief is the following reality: the human soul, unless it is in a position of actively striving for achievement of something beautiful, meaningful and challenging, will stagnate into unhappiness.
A life of learning, opportunity, sharing, and exploration... yes, these things can be expedited through the tool of money. And money is the most important practical tool for the entrepreneurial types among us.
It is fine to enjoy the finest that one can afford (such as a beautiful house that shelters one's family, provides warmth, and the opportunity to create together a loving home). I personally believe that one should not be stingy as long as one lives within one's means, and has a plan for getting out of debt while building a saving.
But to wish for money for the sake of a life of ease, comfort, and luxury... a life of "retirement" and "not having to do anything"... is that not tantamount to wishing for a life lacking in challenge, courage, and the joy of achievement that can only come through hard work, effort, and creative intelligence?
Seems like a lot of pop culture (and the insane lottery frenzy, which I may write about later) is gearing people in the direction of "sloth as virtue".
How about a life of financial wealth where one uses one's wealth for the sake of exploring into unchartered territory of adventure, creativity, sharing, exploration of ideas... and offering a helping hand to those who need it in this world?
Some people like luxury for the sake of luxury and maybe it gives satisfaction... but is it truly the ultimate purpose of wealth?
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