Dealing with the Money Mess

“Don’t think money does everything or you are going to end up doing everything for money.” — Voltaire

Money, as they say, makes the world go round. However, the influence of money on people's behaviour can often lead to troubling situations. Some individuals lose every sense of dignity at the mere sight of money. Their values and principles, which might have seemed strong before, suddenly disappear when they are faced with the prospect of financial gain. This phenomenon is not just restricted to a specific group of people but cuts across various sections of society.

Even those who are considered honourable and educated are not immune to the allure of money. There are instances where people, regarded as intellectuals or persons of high moral standing, have bowed down to those with questionable wealth. These "shady moneybags," as they are sometimes called, seem to hold a strange power over others, convincing them to abandon their integrity in exchange for financial rewards.

I, too, have faced situations where I was tempted to use my intelligence for financial gain in ways that do not align with my moral compass. These offers often come with promises of quick and easy money, but they require actions that I know are wrong. Walking down that path is dangerous, leading to a slippery slope where one bad decision can lead to another, eventually eroding one's character and reputation.

Parents, who are typically the bastions of moral guidance, sometimes fall prey to the same weaknesses when it comes to their children. The pride they feel when their sons or daughters bring home money can sometimes overshadow the means by which that money was acquired. In such cases, home training and the values instilled in their children are forgotten, replaced by the thrill of financial security or prosperity.

It is true that poverty can push people to do desperate things. When faced with a lack of basic necessities, the drive to survive can sometimes make people consider actions they would otherwise deem unacceptable. However, it is crucial to find better ways to escape poverty than to embrace dishonest means. Resorting to dubious ways of making money not only harms individuals but also erodes the values that are essential for a stable and sane society.

Our society needs to promote ways of escaping poverty that do not compromise our values. Education, skill development, and opportunities for honest work are some of the avenues that can help individuals improve their financial situations without losing their integrity. Governments and communities should focus on creating environments where people can earn a decent living through hard work and honesty.

Financial literacy is another important aspect that can help individuals manage their resources better and avoid the temptations of easy but dishonest money. Understanding how to budget, save, and invest wisely can provide a sense of financial security and reduce the allure of quick fixes. When people are equipped with the knowledge to handle their finances, they are less likely to be swayed by offers that require compromising their values.

Moreover, society needs to celebrate those who achieve success through honest means. Role models who have earned their wealth and status through hard work, dedication, and integrity should be highlighted and celebrated. By doing so, we can create a culture that values ethical behaviour and hard work over shortcuts and dishonesty.

It is also essential to address the root causes of poverty and financial desperation. This includes tackling issues like lack of access to quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. By providing a solid foundation for all individuals, we can reduce the circumstances that push people towards unethical ways of making money.

Communities can play a significant role in this regard. Support systems that provide help during tough times can prevent individuals from resorting to desperate measures. Whether it's through food banks, job training programs, or financial counseling, community support can offer a lifeline to those in need.

On a personal level, it is important for each of us to stay true to our values and principles, even when faced with financial challenges. This requires self-awareness and a strong sense of integrity. It is not always easy to turn down opportunities that promise quick money, but it is crucial to consider the long-term consequences of such decisions.

Surrounding ourselves with like-minded individuals who share our values can also help us stay on the right path. Positive influences and strong support networks can provide encouragement and guidance when we face difficult choices. By building a community of integrity, we can collectively resist the temptations of dishonest money.

In all, dealing with the money mess requires a multi-faceted approach. Individuals must commit to maintaining their dignity and integrity, even in the face of financial difficulties. Society, on the other hand, must create environments that promote honest work and provide support for those in need. By working together, we can build a world where financial prosperity does not come at the cost of our values and principles. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards of a society built on honesty and integrity are well worth the effort.

If you are aged from 18-40 years and you like the idea of belonging to a community of excellent and righteous young men or you are even above 40 and you’d like to be one of our mentors, feel very free to join the Real Boys Forum (RBF) by clicking on https://bit.ly/therbf.

#ejdansu #realboysforum #finance