Chasing Wealth

In last week’s installment, we discovered that wealth, favor, and eminence were each associated with the meaning of success. Wealth is arguably the most pursued of the three. Eminence is a close second, but the desire for vain reputation if often curbed when we pursue our life calling—be it through marriage, children, career, or passion.

Wealth, on the other hand, is not as easily settled. The abundance of money and material goods is an age old pursuit that intensifies with each generation. Wealth is certainly means to an end, but its chase is without limit. This means that the average person spends their life working and chasing wealth, but rarely achieves the security or stability they work so hard for.

The tragedy of chasing wealth—much like the tragedy of success—stems from not understanding what wealth really is. What are we truly chasing, and for how long? Why can’t wealth be measured like other feats in life?

A brief look at chasing wealth

When we pursue an education, we know exactly how long it will take to obtain our degree. We learn about our careers and know what to expect, how to operate, and how to move forward. The same can be said about love. Our instincts tell us how long to pursue a love interest, and when we should divert our energy elsewhere.

For many of us, though, chasing wealth is more like a carrot and stick approach. As delusional workhorses, we press forward…striving for something that always seems just out of our reach! Rarely do we question our motive or strategy; seldom do we query the design of the program. As a developer of programs, myself, I can attest that some things simply don’t exist—even though I may want you to believe they do.

It’s hard to imagine, but the meaning of wealth was once synonymous with that of welfare. Even welfare had a different connotation back then and simply referred to one’s state of well being. Happiness, fortuity, and prosperity were each ingredients that made up a person’s wealth. So if you were chasing wealth in those days, it wouldn’t have necessarily meant chasing money.

In summary

By all means, chase your dreams! Find your passion in life and get involved with it! Many times, money and material possessions will follow. Pursue a wealthy existence of knowledge, financial security, family, and friends. Share with others, and always be eager to show love, kindness, and favor. Only then is the pursuit of wealth worthwhile, and only then will we be truly wealthy.

This is your Monday Unleaded for the week of February 3, 2013. Have a productive week!

I Wanna Be Rich – Calloway