The Poverty of Wealth
When true wealth transcends material possessions
“Some people are so poor, all they have is money.” — Patrick Meagher
Some might say that conventional happiness equals financial abundance.
Today I can say that having money might make life easier, but it doesn’t guarantee happiness.
The thought of having once shared a different mindset sends chills down my spine. Yet, life has shown me compassion and led me back on the right path.
I’ve been given a second chance, and I’m determined not to waste it.
I believe that this viewpoint oversimplifies the nature of human contentment. While financial stability can certainly contribute to a sense of well-being and security, true happiness encompasses a much broader spectrum of experiences and emotions.
For me true happiness is discovered in the depth of my relationships, in the pursuit of meaningful goals, and in my ability to live authentically. It flourishes through moments of connection, acts of kindness, and the pursuit of personal passions.
But I didn’t always see things this way.
There were years when I relentlessly pursued building financial stability, constructing a career, striving to be the top performer, to exceed all records at work in order to receive the highest bonuses and rewards.
I wanted to have the most expensive outfit at the office, to dine at the fanciest restaurant.
And for all these aspirations, I aimed to have the means to afford them. The drive to succeed professionally and financially consumed and transformed me.
It distanced me from friends. It made me became fixated on money. It made me work overtime. I worked on Saturdays and Sundays, including on public holidays. I even went to work on Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
I grew desperate for my husband to embark on frequent trips during that time so we could accumulate more money.
My goal was that we afford to buy a house before the wedding. But we didn’t want to take out a large amount of money as a bank loan ( eventually we did and we are still paying after 12 years). I had a goal, and all means were used. Money was all I could see before my eyes.
I was so young and naive!
Then something happened: I found myself compelled to resign because my employer refused to grant me leave for my honeymoon, considering that one or two days of leave were enough.
Faced with a decision, I opted to leave. And I will forever be grateful to my husband for his support in making that decision. The following days were like a cold shower. I immediately realized what had happened. How I had been dragged into the agony of chasing money.
What followed was a long process of awakening and facing reality. And of course a beautiful wedding, a bank loan for a house, a new job, and an immensely desired pregnancy. All that marked the onset of a profound transformation in my life.
Today I can proudly say that true wealth isn’t measured in material possessions.
To me, wealth now reveals itself in the laughter of my children, the warmth of their hugs, and the sparkle in their eyes as they explore the world with boundless curiosity. Their innocence and wonder remind me of life’s simple pleasures and the beauty that surrounds us each day.
And then there’s my husband, my life’s companion, my rock, my soulmate. His love and support form the bedrock of our family, providing strength and reassurance through life’s ups and downs.
I believe others might have experienced similar journeys of ambition and financial pursuit. Some have found fulfillment in their achievements, while others have faced the consequences of prioritizing wealth over personal relationships and well-being.
Because material possessions often serve as markers of success and happiness, it’s easy to overlook the inherent poverty that can accompany wealth.
While financial abundance can provide comfort and convenience, it does not guarantee fulfillment or genuine happiness.
In fact, the pursuit of wealth alone can lead to a poverty of spirit and a sense of emptiness. Been there, done that, regret it.
One of the most significant aspects, in my opinion, is the illusion of security it creates.
Many believe that accumulating wealth will shield them from life’s uncertainties and hardships. But the simple reality is that no amount of money can protect us from the inevitable challenges and trials of life. One might have all the fancy things, but still feel empty inside.
So, while having money is nice, I say it’s not everything. I always tell myself that I must remember to appreciate the things that really matter, like love, health, and happiness.
Let’s cherish the moments with loved ones, pursue our passions, and seek fulfillment in the simple joys of everyday life.
I wish you all to live a life of true abundance, where wealth is measured not just in dollars, but in love, laughter, and the beauty of shared experiences.
Because in the end, those are the things that make life truly rich.
