When a poor person becomes wealthy, they can develop two distinct attitudes towards wealth. One is shaped by their past experiences of poverty, and the other is driven by the desire to make up for lost time and opportunities.
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The First Attitude: Compassion and Mindfulness
The first attitude is when someone who was once poor becomes rich and, having experienced hardship, they now know how to empathize with the poor. They live with moderation, understanding the value of money and possessions because they have walked through the struggle of poverty. They are mindful of their wealth, and they don’t squander it. This person understands the importance of being grateful for what they have and strives to live a balanced life. They exhibit wisdom and mindfulness in their spending and in their relationships with others, especially those who are still in need.
The Second Attitude: Revenge and Excess
On the other hand, some people, upon becoming wealthy, may have a different mindset. Having suffered in poverty, they now feel the need to “make up for it” by indulging in excess and luxury. They may think, “I was poor before, and now that I’m rich, I deserve to enjoy life and indulge myself. There’s no reason to give anything to others. I’ve earned this, and I’m not going back to poverty.” In this mindset, the fear of being poor again drives them to hoard wealth and enjoy a life of excess without concern for others. They might feel justified in their indulgence, thinking that wealth is something to be consumed, not shared.
The Dangers of the Lack of Mindfulness
This second attitude often arises from a lack of mindfulness and wisdom. People who have been poor and suddenly find themselves wealthy can sometimes fall into the trap of greed and envy. They may fear losing their new-found wealth and, in their desperation to protect it, they may resort to unethical behaviors or decisions that lead to suffering. This fear of poverty and the compulsion to keep accumulating can cause emotional and spiritual harm.
A lack of mindfulness, whether one is rich or poor, can lead to a life of dissatisfaction, greed, and suffering. On the other hand, those who maintain mindfulness, whether they are wealthy or poor, can live lives of balance and contentment. They will not be driven by the fear of losing what they have, nor will they fall into envy or excessive consumption. They understand that true wealth is not just about material possessions, but about the wisdom to use those possessions in a way that brings happiness to themselves and others.
The Importance of Mindfulness and Wisdom
Whether one is rich or poor, the key to living a fulfilling life is mindfulness and wisdom. Those who live with mindfulness understand the true value of wealth and use it in ways that benefit themselves and others. They do not let fear or greed dictate their actions. Instead, they focus on the well-being of all and strive to live in a way that brings peace and happiness, both to themselves and to those around them.
Lack of mindfulness, whether in poverty or wealth, leads to suffering. However, with mindfulness and a thoughtful approach to life, we can avoid the pitfalls of excess, greed, and fear, and live with balance and gratitude for all that we have.
Lesson by Venerable Thích Pháp Hoà