Wealth

We read and discussed the book of Proverbs last night in cell, and I was struck by the tension of wealth in it. This ancient collection of wise aphorisms simultaneously tells you that wealth is worth pursuing, but that it's also horrible, and in some cases, it's just better to be poor.

Wealth is rarely my main goal when I strike out on some venture, but it's always a side goal. I've been thinking lately that I'm great with money, but terrible with wealth. And wondering how to change that, or if it's worth bothering. Writing for a living generally doesn't make you rich, especially if you're slothful. If you're fortunate, it doesn't make you poor.

I wouldn't know what to do with wealth if I had it. Sometimes I think that almost has to be a precedent for obtaining wealth (barring lottery winnings). If you don't have a plan, you'll never do the things necessary to get it.