When pondering the significance of various facets in our lives, we frequently contemplate whether money holds the ultimate power. Our answer to this query depends on the context. If we were marooned on a deserted island, money would hold no value and offer no assistance in ensuring our survival. Similarly, if we found ourselves drowning amidst great wealth, it would impede rather than aid our chances of rescue. Nevertheless, in the 21st century, it is inconceivable to exist without money except for these theoretical scenarios. As astutely stated by Winnie the Pooh, “The more… the more.”
Undoubtedly, money is crucial for our existence in the modern world as it enables us to meet our basic needs. However, for numerous individuals, money has transformed into a primary objective, leading to ethical and spiritual repercussions. Without a doubt, money grants access to numerous possibilities and opportunities that would be challenging to achieve otherwise. It affords us the chance to explore the world and appreciate remarkable accomplishments of both humanity and nature. Frequently, we attempt to persuade ourselves that money holds no significance.
Recognizing the importance of human health is widely accepted. If an individual maintains good health, monetary needs may not be as pressing since they can earn income. However, achieving and maintaining good health requires adopting a healthy lifestyle which includes regular exercise and consumption of nutritious food. In present society, gyms have emerged as a convenient location for individuals to engage in physical activity, while healthy food often carries a higher price tag at stores. Thus, having financial resources becomes essential for sustaining a healthy lifestyle.
Furthermore, if someone falls ill, the modern healthcare system necessitates significant funds to access esteemed medical specialists, reputable hospitals, and appropriate medications. It should be noted that some individuals even misuse contemporary medicine.
Excessive spending on cosmetic procedures, such as facial surgeries, breast enlargements, and liposuctions, is common among many individuals. However, these surgeries often result in issues like broken implants or unsatisfactory outcomes. As a consequence, people opt for additional surgeries to enhance their attractiveness. It is crucial for individuals to make wise financial decisions and prioritize essential expenses instead of squandering resources on procedures that could potentially diminish their appeal. Some argue that despite limited finances, they find solace in having peace of mind.
Amidst modern society, many individuals have sufficient resources to meet their daily needs and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. I strongly believe that people should appreciate and be content with what they currently possess instead of constantly desiring more. However, there is a concerning number of young males and females who express dissatisfaction with their current situation and turn to prostitution for financial gain. They prioritize monetary wealth above all else in their value system.
If someone already has enough means to live a respectable life, is it necessary to yearn for more wealth? Should every thought and action revolve around the pursuit of financial prosperity? Is it crucial to view money as the ultimate key to finding happiness, love, and companionship? While money can grant access to various things, can it truly fulfill all desires?
Can one buy happiness? The concept of happiness varies among individuals. Some define it as emotional well-being and inner peace, while others link it to owning material things like a big house, a luxurious car, and unnecessary possessions. There are also those who seek validation by controlling others. In Bulgaria, more and more people now equate money with happiness. As a result, young individuals are ready to sell themselves in order to obtain extravagant cars, high-end fashion items, and access to wealthy social groups.
Despite their initial appearance of happiness and prosperity, their eyes often reveal a lack of spiritual fulfillment. Can money truly purchase genuine love? The kind that takes our breath away upon seeing our loved ones, the kind that sets our hearts racing? I don’t believe so. This type of love cannot be controlled or influenced by wealth. The same concept applies to friendship. Some individuals mistakenly think that having money will make it easier for them to find companionship. Money can buy servants but not friends; it can foster envy but not sincerity and love. As mentioned by the fox in Antoine de Saint Exupery’s “The little prince”: “There are no dealers of friends.”
Money cannot buy qualities like intelligence, resourcefulness, tact, warmth, and tenderness that are essential to a person’s true character. However, money can fulfill needs, offer conveniences, bring pleasure, and contribute to an improved life. Yet when money becomes an addictive obsession, the more we possess, the more we desire, it becomes an overbearing force. In both real life and literature, there are numerous examples illustrating that money is a malevolent ruler incapable of providing happiness. One such instance is Boris, a character in Dimitar Dimov’s novel “Tobacco,” who attains great wealth and achieves his ambition for power but ultimately dies in solitude and unhappiness due to his selfish aspirations.
The desire for wealth has damaged his spirit. Money, as well as the redistribution of markets and authority, is the cause of the brutal murders of individuals such as Andrei Lukanov and Ilia Pavlov, who were targeted by those even more power-hungry. Although it may sound cliched, money can serve as a useful servant but a harmful master. It has the ability to both “enrich” and “plunder” individuals, acting as both a loyal friend and a merciless enemy. While money can provide abundance, it can also take away much. It possesses the strength of the powerful and exploits the vulnerability of the weak. For this reason, people must not prioritize money above their core values, but rather perceive it solely as a means to an end.
