By Mike Alread
A few weeks ago, we had a private client showing of the movie “The Ultimate Gift.” The comments were very positive and several folks said they wished that some of their family members were there to see it. While watching today, it caused me to think about the effects or promises of money. In other words, “What is the purpose of money?” Granted my “day job” is to help people achieve their financial goals and objectives. And most of the time that is related to growing assets (i.e. monies) so that clients can reach those goals and objectives down the road. I now have many clients who have achieved their goals. It is also very interesting to see how people spend or use money not only during their working careers but also in retirement. It seems appropriate to quote Mitch Anthony’s Top 10 list on the distinctions between what money can and cannot buy:
10. Money can buy a bed, but not sleep.
9. Money can buy books, but not brains.
8. Money can buy food, but not appetite.
7. Money can buy finery, but not beauty.
6. Money can buy a house, but not a home.
5. Money can buy medicine, but not health.
4. Money can buy luxuries, but not culture.
3. Money can buy amusement, but not happiness.
2. Money can buy companions, but not friends.
1. Money can buy flattery, but not respect.
I’m reminded of one of the morals of Aesop’s Fables, that true wealth lies not in money’s possession but in its use. Life is most tragic for those who have plenty to live on but nothing worthwhile to live for. Our means takes on meaning when put to work. What do you hope to accomplish? What do you want to become? What kind of mark do you wish to leave upon this planet? Just some thoughts…
