Perspectives
by ED CHERRYHOLMES
Have you ever wondered how you would spend the money if an extra large amount suddenly came to you? I confess I have asked myself what I would buy or give away if I hit the lottery. So far, I have never won enough to buy even a cup of coffee and my prospects of becoming a millionaire are slim to none. Still, it is fun to speculate how the money would be spent.
When I was younger, if I had hit the riches I would have aspired to many of the things money can buy. Back 40 years ago I would have fantasized about a mansion in California, a Rolls-Royce to drive as a second car, the freedom to travel the world, a vacation home on the beach where I could escape the heat of summer and a vacation lodge where I could invite my relatives and friends especially during cold winters. I would always travel first class and might even own my own plane.
The years have changed the way I look at goals and desires. I rarely buy a lottery ticket, as I know my chances of winning are less than getting hit by lightning. Even more than that, I have come to understand what real wealth is all about. The truth is I have already struck it rich, but not in the way that can be counted in dollars and cents.
At this time in my life, I have all that I could ever desire. A few months ago we even got a big screen TV that I had been wanting. Flying first class is still out of the question, but I’m happy to fly coach and have met many interesting people in the coach section of an airplane. The thing we all find out as we turn the corner of 80 years is that the only things that satisfy are: our loving mate, our children, our relatives and our friends who grow more precious with the passing years.
What would I do if fortune smiled on me? My college and seminary would receive a generous gift, as would the churches we attend. Helping our children more than I have been able to do would bring joy to me. I would give as much as possible to worthy charities, but be careful to give after checking their backgrounds.
Everything I’ve ever wanted as a result of luck, I already have. I am rich beyond measure and thankful each day to finally know the difference between money and wealth. The former fades, but true happiness can only come through the wealth that Jesus taught:
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal; but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21).
The secret of wealth is no secret. Be happy and enjoy today because once this day is gone you can never get it back.
