Hello everyone. Hope you’re having a nice day as you read this.
This post will be a little different than my typical personal finance posts. I’m reflecting on some things as I write this, getting philosophical as I think of someone who just passed. Some money thoughts will likely ensue, just giving advance notice on the topic before I go further.
Anyway, I’m philosophical with a little bit of a heavy heart right now as I just found out about the passing of someone I knew a little bit. I say “knew a little bit” because I didn’t know her by more than her first name. I knew her because she worked at a business that my family has been visiting for some years now. You see, when we visited this place, we would chitchat for a few minutes, talk about kids or whatever. We didn’t socialize with her or get to know her outside of there, but knew her in the capacity of her job, where we regularly encountered her, which might have been 50 or so times. But this is over a number of years, so time increases familiarity.
When we found out about the passing, it was a surprise to us. She wasn’t old – seemingly late middle-age and obviously taken from here well too early. It was a jolt to find out that this person we regularly encountered and talked to is gone so suddenly with no warning.
Why am I talking about this here? Well, two reasons I suppose. First, this event served as another reminder to me that while money is really important, it still has limitations in terms of its importance in the grand scheme of things. I say this because when I heard the news, I just started to think about the reality (or my opinion, anyway) that when we’re gone from here, we can’t take money with us. Of course I knew this already, but sometimes we get reminded of things.
In the end, it’s not money or the pursuit of money that’s most important, it’s being kind and generous that endures. Don’t get me wrong, if you read this blog you know that I really like money and think it has great value in making our lives good. It would be disingenuous for me to imply otherwise. That’s why I enjoy writing about it! But this woman…you know, I have no idea what her financial situation was and never thought about it. She might have had a hard life for all I know. However, I think that in the broader sense of the word, she was truly rich. She was always very friendly, genuinely nice to my kids, and very helpful. She remembered names and past conversations, and had really good, helpful advice on a few things. You could tell she cared about people.
There are many people who run big businesses, make a lot of money, or whatever. But it’s really the folks who care, and are helpful and generous that are the true difference makers in our daily lives when we think about it. Our memories of them and appreciation for them tend to endure. It was an honor to know, even at that level, someone who exhibited these qualities. One can hope to learn from someone like her, aspiring to be wealthy not only financially but also where it’s most important too.
Thanks for reading, and have a great day.
That’s too bad – it’s always horrible to see someone pass before their time. I can relate to your philosophical ramblings… truth is, on your death bed (especially if you die before old age), you probably won’t be wishing you invested or saved more. Money is really only something you need if you live past tomorrow.
PKamp3 – agree totally that when we’re late in the game and it’s almost over, money won’t be on our minds. I think it will be the warm feelings for those who we care about and who were good to us. Money matters – a lot – but only to a point.
This is a nice tribute to her. Good reminder about priorities.
AverageJoe – I did mean this as a tribute in a way, as well as a way to share my thoughts about priorities that came to mind at the moment. Felt important to share.
The passing of someone you know does make you think, and I think that while it’s sad, it’s also good to think like that. You’re right about what matters.
Jackie – it sure does make you think, and reflect a bit.
Juan – agreed, people make the difference in the end.
I really like reflective articles like this one. I attempt to maintain a balance between living for today and the future….. but its not easy. Reminders that life is short and you can’t take it with you are important even though they’re not new!
Barb – I agree, balance is vital. That and keeping perspective on what’s important.
I’ve thought about this too, so many times. Whenever someone I know gets sick or passes, it’s a big wake up call that whatever I’m narrowly focusing on in my life (whether it be money, career, etc.) is only a small pie of a big picture.
Lindy – I totally get what you mean.
Good thoughts, Squirrelers. I’ve also recently had a friend and former colleague die before his time. The good point is that he was living a life of choice, and didn’t have many regrets.
101C – that’s good that at least he had a good life without many regrets.
I’m sorry to hear about that. Life is SO precious and we all too often take it for granted and get caught up in petty things. Thanks a bunch for sharing your thoughts on this. It is a good reminder for me to let go of a bunch of stress that’s been bothering me in the last few days and say some prayers for all the things I’m thankful for. -Sydney
Sydney – life is truly precious, I took some time to get some perspective and remind myself for things to be thankful for. I know what you’re saying.