Language of the Perpetual Poor

This is a tough one. I've never been of the belief that money is evil. Or that it's good. To me, money is a tool. Assigning value to it is like making moral judgments on a hammer — it's just a tool. It is only what you do with that tool, that may deserve or merit a value judgment. But many don't see it that way (Eugene's full of folks who don't see it that way), and I found myself nodding a great deal while reading this post:

Link: Language of the Perpetual Poor | Frugal Dad.

"Do you know someone who is “perpetual poor?” You know the type - constantly complaining, poor-mouthing, griping about the price of everything and jealous of everything others have. I think we all know at least one or two of those types. I’ve had the displeasure of knowing many, and over time I have heard my share of sob stories related to their personal finances. I recognize that some people are generally down on their luck, or going through a rough patch. Maybe they have faced a debilitating illness, or a job layoff, or some other tragic event that has derailed them from leading successful, productive lives. Those are not the people I am referring to when I attach the label 'perpetual poor.'”

Comments

[The Kitten]

well, after all my years of being broke - and you're familiar with a good many of those years - and then suddenly being very not broke, i've come to realize i can take it or leave it. i'd certainly rather take it though. but isn't it interesting how in many eastern teachings money just isn't quite the big deal it is over here. and how in the joyous u.s. we seem to always be striving for MORE - more stuff, more money with which to buy more stuff and holy mackeral batman! no one here seems any happier for it.... just my 2 cents. no pun, intended.

[Anthony StClair]

Eh, I somewhat agree. There are many Western teachings that also remind us that it's not the material/money that matters most, and there's also plenty of opulence and materialism in Asia and such too.

I find the larger problem to be encompassed in your last point - "striving for MORE - more stuff..." and I think that's where the problem lies. More money, doesn't have to be more stuff. More money can be paying something off, such as a student loan. More money can be starting a trust, college or other account for your newborn baby, to help them along in life. More money can be taking the trip of your dreams, while also maintaining any obligations at home. More money does not automatically equal shiny plastic crap.

I think the problem comes from where the focus is put. You're right - money itself does not cause happiness, and it shouldn't be the focus. No one's happier because they have a hammer - but if that hammer helps them build something they want, then that something can be part of what makes them happy. It's the goal that matters, not the tool. And money's just a tool.