Ashlee SimmonsMoney Doesn't Mean That Much
July 30th 2008 17:03
I wrote an interesting article for Associated Content entitled $1,000,000: It's All Yours. This was one of the truly fun times in a freelance writer's life because I interviewed random people in order to figure out my answer.
I set out to write this article with the full intention of taking the slant of greed. I figured that especially during harder times for most folks, I would hear about spending sprees and me-talk. I was totally shocked as person after person responded that they would give to others, whether the others were a favorite charity, family members or friends.
This restored so much of my faith in humanity. I always give everyone the benefit of the doubt from the get-go, but I have to admit that there are times when even I can be a cynic. I do see the other side of endless money in the equestrian world, where winning is often the only goal. And horses are not an inexpensive hobby (or business). That said, there are tons of great equestrians and their supporting staff, but it's pretty cut throat as you move up the levels.
And on the flip side, I have recently done work where I saw a totally different slice of life. People were needy, greedy and unhappy. This experience was an eye-opener for me, but doing charitable work was great for my soul. We all can be needy, greedy and completely unhappy. Sort of ravished soul-stealers looking for another fix. I could not fix the clients I worked with, but I could offer assistance in my capacity and give lots of kind words and encouragement.
So when I asked my random people about a windfall - they were all kind, balanced and thoughtful. Each person took his or her time to give a clear answer. I was stunned by the end of it all. I actually had to take a look and ask myself what I would do with a $1,000,000 windfall. Would I be so generous with my money?
It's good to be kind. It's good to give. Giving back actually allows you to receive.
What did you give today?
[ I set out to write this article with the full intention of taking the slant of greed. I figured that especially during harder times for most folks, I would hear about spending sprees and me-talk. I was totally shocked as person after person responded that they would give to others, whether the others were a favorite charity, family members or friends.
This restored so much of my faith in humanity. I always give everyone the benefit of the doubt from the get-go, but I have to admit that there are times when even I can be a cynic. I do see the other side of endless money in the equestrian world, where winning is often the only goal. And horses are not an inexpensive hobby (or business). That said, there are tons of great equestrians and their supporting staff, but it's pretty cut throat as you move up the levels.
And on the flip side, I have recently done work where I saw a totally different slice of life. People were needy, greedy and unhappy. This experience was an eye-opener for me, but doing charitable work was great for my soul. We all can be needy, greedy and completely unhappy. Sort of ravished soul-stealers looking for another fix. I could not fix the clients I worked with, but I could offer assistance in my capacity and give lots of kind words and encouragement.
So when I asked my random people about a windfall - they were all kind, balanced and thoughtful. Each person took his or her time to give a clear answer. I was stunned by the end of it all. I actually had to take a look and ask myself what I would do with a $1,000,000 windfall. Would I be so generous with my money?
It's good to be kind. It's good to give. Giving back actually allows you to receive.
What did you give today?
| 13 |
| Vote |
Shared on
Add Comments
Read More
Comments (2)
