“Slipping into a pair of designer jeans or designer anythings can raise the insecure from the doldrums of nothingness to the fantasy level of ‘I’m somebody,
and if you don’t believe me, just look at my label!’”—Psychologist Chaytor D. Mason.
In order
to be admired, some people flaunt their designer wear or other fancy
belongings. In one Asian land, for example, the “newly rich love luxury
products —imported French handbags, Italian sports cars— and even more, they love to show off [their wealth].
Of
course, there is nothing wrong with enjoying the fruitage of one’s
labor. After all, “Every man should eat and indeed drink and see
good for all his hard work. It is the gift of God.” But is it wise to flaunt, or parade, our possessions?
The Rich Have Many Friends
When the
rich or those who pretend to be rich flaunt their belongings, what kind
of friends might they attract? I think we all have a clue: No one likes the poor, but the rich have many friends. That is the truth about human nature.
The implication is this: The 'many friends' of the rich are friends, not so much of the people themselves, but of their wealth. Their so-called friendship is rooted in self-interest, as is their flattering speech.
So ask
yourself, ‘What kind of friends do I want? Friends who love me for what I
have or true friends who love me for what I am?’ Our behavior can contribute to the kind of friends we attract.
Wisdom Is With the Modest Ones
Another
problem associated with showing off wealth, is the risk of losing it, or at least
some of it. A report on crime and safety in Mexico stated: “Ostentatious
displays of wealth are magnets for thieves in Mexico City. Wearing
expensive jewelry, watches, and displays of
large amounts of cash draw unwanted attention.” I am sure that is also applicable in other parts of the world. Wisdom is with the modest ones.
See the Good Qualities in Others
Instead
of having an egotistical ‘look-at-me’ attitude, a modest and humble
person delights in the good qualities and strengths of others.
This is one topic that has been debated over and over each time blogs post pictures of celebrities with loads of cash or other material possession. Or the picture is posted on the celebrity social media account. The comments are usually heated and sometimes hilarious...:-)
This is one topic that has been debated over and over each time blogs post pictures of celebrities with loads of cash or other material possession. Or the picture is posted on the celebrity social media account. The comments are usually heated and sometimes hilarious...:-)