Can You Be Rich Without Earning It?

We watched Arthur a couple of weeks ago – the latest version. The fabulously rich-by-birthright Arthur (Russell Brand) falls in love with Naomi (Greta Gerwig), the working-class girl.

If you’re a regular reader, you may have figured out by now that we’re always on. We’re always thinking about ideas to share with you.

One of the most interesting moments in the movie to us was toward the end. Arthur and Naomi were split up.

But, in spite of himself, Arthur had been good for Naomi just as she was good for him. He encouraged her to pursue her dream of publishing a children’s book.

She did. And it got published.

She was elated until she found out that the publisher had been purchased by Arthur’s family business. He was the force behind her success.

When she learned this, she ran away. Arthur chased after her. Once he caught her, he told her that he thought she was talented.

She said, “I thought other people thought I was talented. I thought I had earned it. And that felt really good. I like earning something. And I know that you don’t know what that feels like, but it’s great. You should try it sometime.”

There is a certain void that comes with money not earned. It’s part of what was missing in Arthur’s life.

It’s part of what’s missing in our society today. Too many people think money is the end.

Money may be the desired result. But it’s empty in and of itself.

Sure, it’s fun to spend it. But the glee is fleeting.

Money attached to accomplishment brings a sense of fulfillment. In the end, the dignity is in the work. The money is just a report card.

You can be rich without earning your money but you won’t feel rich for long.

Do you agree?

Image in this post from stock.xchng