Paper Chasing.

I've been thinking a lot about the reasons that i behave the way I do, for a long time now, but now more than ever i'm beginning to think about the way other's behave and the driving force behind these actions.

The revelations have been scary.

It seems that all of my peers are chasing money. Yes money, everyone is in a rush to get it however they can. It makes sense after all, money buys pretty things but it also pays for the basics like food and shelter, so it makes sense to follow the money no?

Yes and no for me, because i'm noticing more and more that its not just about the basics anymore, there's this raging desire to in their (my peer's) eyes to live a certain lifestyle and most times not one that they have grown up with. To be honest its OK to want to be more successful (how do we even measure success?) than our parents were, to provide for our children (if we have any) more than our parents did for us. I think of myself and my love for travel sure does cost some, and I like pretty things. 

But after all is said, Money is not the motive for EVERYTHING I do, and that's what scares me about these peers I'm talking about. I understand that some people don't have many options, they have to chase the money to survive, those are not the people I'm talking about. Everyday we're being sold a luxury lifestyle, through glitzy magazines and commercials on TV. No one ever talks about what is behind that life, and to be honest I have no interest in finding out. When I discuss my goals with people I can hear the scoff that barely escapes their lips, their thoughts "nobody makes any money like that".

How do I explain that although I understand what money can get it will never be the driving force behind my most important decisions (and I hope it will never have to be) i'm content with living a fulfilling life by changing the lives of others, having all the things I need and some wants now and then. I appreciate the privilege of having the opportunity to focus on dreams with the support of my parents, but I also know that there are many luxuries I have given up, and the Paper chasing route was an option and still seems appealing once in a while.

I guess at the end of it all it depends on your definition of happiness and where that comes from. Just make sure that whatever path you choose... whatever decisions you make its full of meaningful things.

I read this quote can't remember where but I was nine years old, actually I think it was the title of a book "Follow your dreams, the money will come after" something along those lines. It stuck I guess. 

Take a risk that brings you joy soon,

Sabirah.