Good Enough To Share

When I first landed a job, I’ve already decided how to spend my first pay check. I treated my parents to dinner and got myself a set of matching luggage. I guess early on, I knew what I wanted. Food and Travel. With each, my family is top of mind. 

With the subsequent pay checks, I resolved to support myself through graduate school. Not much chance to travel but I made sure my study groups share my passion for food. That somehow worked well. By the time I finished graduate school, I’ve saved enough to buy a car. And when I got a promotion and chunky raise, I made my first investment in real estate and upgraded my car. There wasn’t much more. I was happy with what I had. The company perks provided the next few items I needed — a better car, a representation allowance, some travels and a few luxuries. I was happy and content. 

I didn’t dream of a bigger house. I still live in the same condominium building that has seen better years. I haven’t bought a new car with my own money since I retired more than 2 decades ago. And I shop only to buy food, books and gifts. I still find joy in watching movies/concerts and dining alone. I feel excited even when I’m lost because it presents an adventure for me. I only feel miserable when I or my loved ones feel sick and helpless. 

“Comparison is a thief of joy.” I fully subscribe to this. Why compare when it can rob you of your moment’s happiness? When I pray, I ask God to give me friends who’d share with me the stuff they enjoy but which I may not have. Likewise, I pray He gives me the means to share as much as I have with others. Friends, who like me, know when it’s enough. And feel happy and cheerful about sharing.