Money—it’s such a simple, yet potent word that can invoke many different emotions, thoughts, fears and dreams in so many people. We all seem to want it, but most of us for different reasons. For some it’s the means to a better life or survival, for others it’s about power, control, vanity….or simply having things.
I’ve never given much thought to the meaning behind it all—the meaning of money, until I stumbled upon “The Ultimate Gift”. This inspiring movie, based on the book with the same name (by Jim Stovall), reminded me of how easily money can corrupt our perspectives about what’s important, and what is real.
Why do we work as hard as we do? What does all this money do for us? What is it all for?
Ironically, my entire professional life is centered on money, taking care of it for others, making sure that it’s saved, it grows, that it lasts, and that it protects the people that have entrusted me with it, people that have worked so hard for it and others who maybe didn’t. I live and breathe money every day—in my client planning, their investments, savings, budgeting…..money…..it’s everywhere…. in its tangible form. But, what exactly does money mean?
What exactly does money mean to you?
Money is blind, and money blinds. It is a ticket to freedom, for others a sentence in darkness. Some obsess about it, a few loathe it, and yet others cannot ever seem to attract it. I’ve seen money corrupt the most decent of people, rip families apart and poison minds and hearts. But, I’ve also seen money enable dreams, save lives and nourish the existence of those who need it most. Money is meant to be shared, not hoarded, help not hurt.
Every day, we should remind ourselves of our purpose in life, revisit our dreams and face our deepest fears. Life is a journey, it’s our shared existence and every experience, good or bad, painful or happy teaches us something. Every moment is really, an ultimate gift….and money, no matter how much or how little we may have, is merely the means to end–nothing more.
Cathy Pareto, MBA, CFP®, AIF® is the Founder and President of Cathy Pareto & Associates, Inc. For over twelve years, Cathy has been helping financial consumers and professionals understand the world of investments and finance with a sound, but down to earth money management approach. For over a decade Cathy was a Senior Financial Advisor for another Miami based investment advisory firm, where she managed over $200 million in assets for high net worth clients and retirement plans. She has extensive experience in retirement issues, asset allocation, investment selection, investment management, education planning, estate planning coordination, and asset protection strategies. Additionally, she was an Adjunct Professor and Faculty Coordinator for the CFP® Program at Florida International University’s College of Business.
