The True Wealth: A Lesson from Life

In today’s world, people relentlessly chase money, believing it to be the ultimate source of happiness and security. But what if wealth, when misused, becomes a cause of suffering instead of joy?

I was born into a very rich family, yet I happily choose to stay with Adivasis, farmers, and in ashrams among sadhus and yogis. My work and purpose align with them, and through this, I have experienced both the richest and the simplest ways of life. Just as Meerabai, though born a princess, chose the path of devotion and simplicity, I, too, have embraced a life deeply connected to nature and spirituality. This journey has given me invaluable insights into what true wealth really means.

A Tale of Two Lives

1. The Rich Man – With abundant wealth, he hires people for every task and enjoys a life of ease. Over time, his body weakens due to inactivity. As he ages, even simple movements become difficult. He becomes bedridden, reliant on caretakers, and wears nappies that lead to ulcers and infections. Medicines offer no real cure, only adding to his suffering.

2. The Poor Man – Without wealth to afford servants or caretakers, he does his own work—cleaning, cooking, and managing his home. His body remains active, his organs function well, and he stays independent and self-reliant even in old age. He spends nothing on expensive treatments or artificial aids yet remains naturally fit and content.

The Moral of the Story

The real lesson here is not about being rich or poor—it is about how one chooses to live. Wealth, when misused for excessive comfort and dependency, leads to suffering. But when used wisely, it becomes a tool for growth, service, and well-being. True health and happiness come from natural living, self-discipline, and spiritual awareness.

The Bhagavad Gita explains this beautifully:

1. Attachment to Luxury Leads to Suffering

> "भोगैश्वर्यप्रसक्तानां तयापहृतचेतसाम्।

व्यवसायात्मिका बुद्धिः समाधौ न विधीयते।।"

(Bhagavad Gita 2.44)

"For those who are too attached to material enjoyment and opulence, the resolute determination for spiritual realization does not take place."

The rich man’s attachment to comfort made him weak and dependent, ultimately leading to suffering.

2. True Wealth Lies in Self-Discipline and Action

> "योगस्थः कुरु कर्माणि संगं त्यक्त्वा धनञ्जय।

सिद्ध्यसिद्ध्योः समो भूत्वा समत्वं योग उच्यते।।"

(Bhagavad Gita 2.48)

"Be steadfast in yoga, O Arjuna. Perform your duty without attachment, remaining equal in success and failure. Such equanimity is called yoga."

The poor man, despite his lack of money, stayed active, engaged in his duties, and maintained his well-being naturally. This balance in action is true yoga.

The Path to True Well-Being

Having seen both sides of life, I have realized that neither wealth nor poverty determines happiness. What truly matters is how we use what we have.

If money is used to lead a natural, disciplined, and meaningful life, it can be a great asset. A great example of this is Ratan Tata—even in his 80s, he remains active and healthy because his focus was on giving back to society rather than just personal indulgence.

As stated in the scriptures:

> "परोपकारार्थमिदं शरीरम्।"

"Paropkarartham idam shariram."

"This body is meant for the service of others."

We should use our bodies, resources, and abilities to help others in whatever way we can.

On the other hand, when wealth is used only for self-indulgence and selfish desires, it leads to suffering. I have personally seen several rich people in their old age suffer due to this misplaced attachment.

Thus, the real answer is not about being rich or poor—it is about aligning with natural living and spirituality. It is about using oneself in service to others, as described in the verse 'Paropkarartham idam shariram'.

The Way to Live Life According to the Gita

> "तस्मादसक्तः सततं कार्यं कर्म समाचर।

असक्तो ह्याचरन्कर्म परमाप्नोति पूरुषः।।"

(Bhagavad Gita 3.19)

"Therefore, always perform your duty without attachment. By working without attachment, one attains the Supreme."

The Ultimate Lesson

Life has taught me one simple truth—live naturally, stay active, and align with the wisdom of nature and with the Divine being. Use your wealth, body, and mind in service to others. This is the real key to a meaningful, fulfilled, and joyous life.

• Manjushree Rathi