Some time ago @tinybuddha asked a question that I answered instantly without a second thought, I still believe in my answer, but today I was reminded of it with the start of the @tinybuddhabook project. [BTW it looks like it's going to be an interesting book, so check it out and keep an eye out for it.] So anyway it got me thinking elaborately, beyond the tweet-long reply. The question posed was: Do you need money to be happy—and why? My reply was: I hear poverty isn't such a cozy place.
So, yes I need money to be happy. I need money to put a roof over my head, a meal on my table, and afford water and electricity that keep my place livable. I need money to be able to get the education that satisfies and enlightens me, the care that keeps me healthy and still living, I'm not talking hypothetically, if it weren't for that money I wouldn't have been here typing this. I need money to help someone desperately in need of it, to find and apply solutions that better the world I'm in. I need money that supports my passion as an artist. And finally, I need money for my caramel macchiato, because caramel and caffeine make me happy *grins* [sorry, I couldn't help it lol]
But you know, on the other hand I don't want to be filthy rich. I want to be comfortable, but be able to earn, there's no pleasure without earning. I believe it's a privilege to have it, it's healthy for the soul. I've been on either sides of the spectrum, and I choose to work and earn.
