It is not all about me...

Here is something I've been thinking about lately...
Although I am still fairly young, I believe that I have already unlocked a great secret in life...I KNOW what doesn't make a person happy or content. Guess what, wealth-money-riches-stuff-pleasures- it doesn't make for a happy life. Oh it might make things easier , but it is definitely NOT the root of happiness.
Now, I'm not saying that being "well off" or "wealthy" is bad; it can be good, but it all comes down to perspective.
Based on experience, I've seen wealth embraced in two different ways and produce two different outcomes.
I've seen wealth selfishly squandered as a means to TRY and fill a deep hole of dissatisfaction. I've seen wealth transform people into believing that somehow the world is built around them and their comfort. For example, why do the richest Hollywood stars, who seem to have it all, also seem the most miserable?
Wealth is dangerous. It can produce a false sense of security and promise of contentment. But, I've discovered a secret-a secret I wish the whole world recognized-Contentment does NOT come from living for ourselves, which often becomes the delusion. That is what this world tells us, but the results from it prove otherwise.
I believe that God did not create us to live a life focused solely on pleasure. Pleasure is momentary. It is selfish, and if you dissect sin, you'll find at the root of all sin, selfishness and pride. Self- focus does not breed contentment. We were made to live for something bigger than ourselves.
Now, I have also seen wealth used in a way which contributes to happiness and contentment. A wealthy couple -who I know and admire very much-are one of the most joyful people I know. It is not because of their wealth; their joy comes from using their wealth to bless others-to live for something greater than themselves. They are constantly blessing others with their money. Their energy goes into a cause that furthers the kindgdom of God.
In sum, I have witnessed wealth turn people into selfish, dissatisfied beings who live out their days, trying to find meaning in pleasure, which is fleeting and hollow. However, I have seen wealth used responsibly, generously and for a cause and conviction that is eternal.
I KNOW, without a doubt, that I never want to be rich if wealth causes me to become a selfish, cold, dissatisfied person. How ugly.
I want to live my life for something greater than myself, greater than my pleasure-
My husband is a hard worker. I admire his determination and his work ethic. We both agree that it is Biblical to work hard, and if we are blessed with more wealth someday, we really want to use it to bless others and pour it into something that is eternal. I don't want to come off sounding overly pious, because I am certainly at fault for losing perspective and being a selfish person. But, I recognize deep in my heart who I want to be, and I pray-with all my heart, that my work, my time, my wealth will be used for something greater than myself-because really, it is not all about me.