Wealth and poverty are similar experiences when people with money worry about being poor; and people in poverty are troubled with where their next meal will come from. Both phenomenon’s have much in common.

A few days ago a relative shared how their millionaire friend was worried sick for fear of running out of money. I have heard of seniors having the same thoughts–their money running out before their time on earth is complete. 

When we worry, our mind has shifted from thankfulness and enjoyment of what we have to fear and fret over what might or could happen at some future time. It is excessing about tomorrow, giving up the joy of living today. Yet it is good to plan and exercise good stewardship with material good. Worry is not healthy minded stewardship–it drains our liveliness in the present!

Poverty is sad–having to be concerned with creature comforts and survival needs are both taxing and challenging. Additionally, hardship comes to mind regarding fear of poverty. Similarly, it is sad to be wealthy and impoverished mentally from the drain of worry and the distress of possible material loss. There is a better way to think, feel, and live.

How about in whatever our situation to make the most of it. To be grateful for daily provision and material comfort. To be positive in the face of trouble with financial supply and material comforts. To continue being thankful under every circumstance. And to be a giver even in the most challenging predicaments. These are rich qualities at any time.  

It is wise to appreciate something about each experience in our life. When we rise above labels of wealthy, poor, or average we are progressing up the rungs of happiness.

Life is more than terms, descriptions, labels, and identifications. We are most joyful when we appreciate the pleasure of simplicity, the times of laughter, the occasions when we forget about what time it is or what comes next–and be happy now, as we are with what we have and with who we are. 

The gratifying moments in living our lives come not from wealth or poverty, concern or stress. Transcendent moments happen when we give in love and sincerely overcome a defeated attitude, giving up the struggle with what might or could be.