The road to riches begins when we want something we don’t
have. If we stay focused and work hard we find we get it. But sooner or later
our happiness wanes because we quickly become accustomed to what we’ve just
acquired. Eventually we become bored so we seek something new to get or to do. Once
more, we stay focused and work hard, and find it’s ours. Soon after, the
boredom returns and the quest is renewed.
We do this again and again.
Making matters worse, we can find it harder to slow down and
enjoy what we have because we’ve become too busy running after the next thing
even though we will admit that we have more possessions and experiences than a
lifetime of savoring can do justice to. This is how wealth becomes poverty. And
yes, everybody does it.
The way to get rich and stay rich, then, is not about
endless acquisition but regular savoring. Taking delight in the things we have,
counting our blessings, appreciating, and taking real pleasure in the good
fortune we’ve enjoyed – that’s where true wealth is found.
Which brings us to Advent.
This is the season that invites us to do this - to regular
contemplation of the beauty and wealth that surrounds us. So take a moment.
Breathe deep. Think of one thing in your life that absolutely delights you –
not something you want, but something you already have. Sooner or later we
discover how rich we already are.
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Reading
The One Thing – Gary Keller
Alexander Hamilton – Ron Chernow
Mark – Morna Hooker
Mark – Morna Hooker
