Random Thoughts

Recently I happened to read an interview with an ex-millionnaire who had lost all his wealth including his luxurious multi-million dollar home that was designed after a cruise ship. The home was featured on local television and had contributed partly to his fame as a millionnaire who had distinct tastes.

He started responding to the interviewer's questions saying "I am not filthy rich any more" with a smile. When asked, "Do you miss the house?", he replied, "No, I don't. I was not addicted to the luxury. The house was just a badge for me. It was like climbing the Everest. You reach the peak and go back to your previous life".

I am sure that is something any ex-millionnaire would (like to) say to cover up the embarrassment of losing the wealth, but there was something about the way he said it that made me believe him.

We all need some badges and ribbons to prove us to ourselves. It may sound easy and simplistic to say that we should lead a simple life, control our desires and be happy with what we have. But that is not how human beings are wired. We have desires, we are jealous of our peers who reached out and won the stars. If we can keep the desire and jealousy at bay, that is the perfect world, but it seldom works that way. So, we need our own badges, ribbons and stars to prove to ourselves and others that we can do it.  

When we have achieved a badge, it is very difficult to deliberately let go of it. It could be depressing if it is snatched away from us, but it is very important to maintain a positive attitude and look at it matter-of-factedly.