Sometimes I experience a “Yes – that makes so much sense!” moment as I read something – such as these last words of Steve Jobs which popped up in a newsreader on my computer. As many know, Steve Jobs was one of the founders of Apple Computers. He was a billionaire many times over, and his sage words below speak volumes as to (I think) what he wishes he’d better put his time and efforts towards over the course of his life. I have no idea as to any spiritual aspects within Jobs’ life. Nevertheless, at the end of his life, great wealth, titles, positions and the admiration of those throughout the world fell far short of satisfying his deepest longings. And if nothing else, I’m sensing the need to make some phone calls, write some letters – including a letter of apology to someone I’ve offended and look for a nice Valentine’s Day gift to give my bride.
I have reached the summit of success in the world of business. In the eyes of others, my life is a success. However, aside from work, I had little joy. In the end, wealth is just a fact I am used to. At this moment, laying on my hospital bed, remembering my whole life, I realize that all the gratitude and wealth in which I took so much pride, has vanished and became meaningless in the face of imminent death.
You can hire someone to drive your car or make money for you but it’s impossible to hire someone to deal with sickness and die for you. Material things lost can be found. But there is one thing that can never be found when it is lost – “Life”. Whatever stage of life we are currently in, with time, we will face it the day the curtain closes.
Love your family, spouse and friends… Treat them right. Cherish them. As we get older, and wiser, we slowly realize that wearing a $300 or $30 watch – both give the same hour. Whether we have a $300 or $30 wallet or purse – the amount inside is the same. Whether we drive a $150,000 car or $30,000 car, the road and distance are the same, and we arrive at the same destination.
That we drink a bottle of wine at 1000. $ or $10 hangover is the same. That the house we live in is 300 or 3000 square feet – the loneliness is the same. You will realize that your true inner happiness does not come from material things of this world. Whether you travel first class or economic class, if the plane crashes, you crash with it.
Therefore, I hope you realize; when you have friends, boyfriends and old friends, brothers and sisters, with whom you argue, laugh, talk, sing, talk about north-south-east or heaven and earth, this is the real happiness! An indisputable fact of life: Don’t educate your kids to be rich. Educate them to be happy. So, when they grow up, they will know the value of things and not the price.
Martin's Mercurial Musings 