There is a wonderful story about a German woman who is leading a life without owning any money or possessions (you can read Heidemarie Schwermer's story by googling "living without money"). She leads her life by exchanging her services with other people. How romantic, was our first thought. Yet, when you think about it, it is not really whether you own or exchange money that matters, it is our attitude towards providing a loving service towards others that really matters.
Just imagine how you would feel if you owned nothing. This happened to Eckhart Tolle once when he lived like a homeless person. In the end he had to buy a lottery ticked and use the proceeds of his win to get his book published, "The Power of Now". Many frown at this lifestyle. We buy houses, save for retirement, buy insurance and "network" at our workplace to secure a safe future for us. However, that's not how the Tao works. Unexpected losses for you or someone close to you may reveal that there is no protection, just as unbelievable fortunes and coincidences will teach us that the sky is the limit for everyone who believes it is.
The German woman seems wise to us. Even though the article doesn't mention a particular religion, Heidemarie certainly appears to be a spiritual traveler. Money is nothing but a veil, but apparently many still get lost in its fine fabric. We should be able to look right through it and focus on the service we provide to each other in whatever capacity that might be. If you accumulate money to feel secure, know that the Tao will provide for your future, not money. If you build riches to be special know that since we are all one, we either all are special or no one is. Specialness will bring unhappiness if your subconscious goal is to look down on others.
We don't advise to go and sell all your riches like Jesus did, but we would advise you to focus on your special craft and on your service to make others happy. Money can't buy you happiness but relationships and creative work can. Enjoy!
By Christian and Su Zhen
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