We often count how rich we are to know the state of our well-being. Our money gives us a sense of security in a fast-changing and uncertain world. The practical application of money not only takes care of our immediate needs but also gives us the freedom and courage to plan for the future. Earning well no doubt is extremely important and is a duty towards ourselves and our family. And as we traverse this journey, we need to reflect on a simple fact of life – there is a difference between being rich and being wealthy.

Our wealth is beyond what our bank balance shows. It is the cumulative balance we have across three vital things in our life – our relationships, experiences, and the difference we have made in someone’s life.

Life is about people. The richness of building bonds of love and friendship has been experienced by all of us, and in tough times these very bonds help us get through. Not only do we learn and grow, strong relationships allow us the opportunity to express ourselves, and in the process, we get to know ourselves better. The depth of our relationships makes us wealthy.

Life is about different experiences. Even as we sometimes trudge through the challenges of life, we need to remind ourselves that essentially we were born to be happy. When we spend time discovering some of the beautiful things in the world, and also allow ourselves to step out of our comfort zones to experience what we otherwise may not have, we have enriched ourselves. Experiences make us wealthy.

Life is about giving. Finding a spirit of service in everything we do can be uplifting and meaningful. And when we find the compassion to reach out and ease someone else’s pain, or be there for someone when they need it, we automatically tap into our own abundance effortlessly. Offering ourselves to make a difference to someone makes us wealthy.

In the game of life, if we look at the wrong scoreboard, we may well find ourselves running a race and at the end of it wondering where the finish line is. And when we change the scoreboard of our life, we will discover a wonderful fact of life – life is not about a finish line, it is all about the starting point of beautiful relationships, experiences, and reaching out.

(Picture – My alma mater, St.Xavier’s College)