It's Not About The Money

Like many of you, I started working at an early age, cutting grass, then a paper route, then a dishwasher and cook. Thankfully, I have never been unemployed or otherwise without a job when I wanted or needed one. Over the decades, I have worked hard on my career, investments, and businesses, all in the name of the almighty dollar, or was it?

Recently, I set up my laptop to use as my screensaver my entire photo library consisting of thousands of pictures going back twenty-plus years, back to my adoption of digital photography. It would go back further if I digitized all my print photo albums.

When I return to my computer after a period of inactivity, I find myself mesmerized by the images parading across the screen. I see children grown into adults; family vacations; international travel; domestic road trips on motorcycles or in cars; properties bought, renovated, and sold; parties with friends and neighbors; birthdays; anniversaries; graduations; relationships past and present, and the list could go on forever.

As I watch my life’s history pass before me, I see a life well lived! I have few regrets and don’t feel like I’ve left much on the table, keeping in mind that I’m not done yet! What doesn’t come to mind are the jobs I’ve had, the money I’ve earned, or the investments I’ve made. While I worked hard at those things, it wasn’t for the money; it was for the lifestyle it enabled and the images of my life, whether real or in my mind.

While making that money, remember it’s not about the money; the money is a means to a greater end. Don’t forget to enjoy the journey!

“The unexamined life is not worth living.” Socrates