Prosperity is about Riches

The word "rich" means: in abundant supply; mellow and full; strong and vibrant in color; containing many choice ingredients. There is the richness of our friends, of nature, good books, a wonderful meal, a setting sun, of looking at someone we love with appreciation. The idea of being rich is to use the things we love and have to enjoy the present moment as fully as we can.

As with all of life, it is the little things that count the most. Wisely, an old proverb teaches: "It is not the mountain in the distance that slows me down, it is the stone in my shoe."

The idea of being rich while being just a regular member of society goes against a lot of social pressures. We live in a culture that pushes the idea of poverty even as it exhorts us to grab all we can. Do you see the double message there? To put some energy into deciding what richness means for you will do much to free you from the fear of illusion.

Richness also means being able to enjoy the present moment, to a reasonable degree. Remember our old friend balance? Back in the 4th century BC, Euripides said: "Once a man be done with hunger, rich and poor are all as one." He was referring to using the accumulation of money and stuff as the measuring stick of wealth.

In a park last summer I sat and watched a little girl cuddling and enjoying her stuffed Teddy-bear with true relish. They had quite the relationship going. And she looked truly rich.

[last modified 6/28/06]

 Next page...

 Prosperity index page...

 A Path With Heart index...