The Hardest Arithmetic

The hardest arithmetic to master is that which enables us to count our blessings. - Eric Hoffer


I read an article recently that detailed the mounting struggles of some individuals whose incomes earned them slots among the top 1% of earners in the United States. One man, whose income was disclosed as being just above $350,000 annually, described how that sum was simply not enough when considering the expense of having multiple homes, paying for private school tuition, and every day expenditures that he and his family have become accustomed to.

He insisted that he was not complaining, but rather just stating that his income placed very real limitations on his ability to realize the quality of life he aspired to have.

This is understandable. No one should be faulted for being ambitious but, through outlining his financial challenges, the assumption can be easily drawn that nothing he has is quite good enough. He allocates every dollar he earns to maintaining a lifestyle--well above the majority of Americans--but there is little satisfaction. There is no air of gratitude hovering above his claims. The focus is always on wanting more and moving up.

Ambition is a wonderful thing, but if it prevents you from surveying what you presently have with an eye of gratitude, then ambition will become a curse. You will spend your life spending and acquiring out of habit rather than appreciation for what you are afforded.

Being grateful for the fruit of today will make the fruit of tomorrow much sweeter.