A profound truth dawned on me as I admired a stunning sunset in Kuala Kedah recently. This realisation, emerging amidst the serenity of nature, was both a revelation and a reflection of life’s true essence. I had recently embarked on a road trip to the northern states of Malaysia, which provided me with a rare respite from the daily grind.
At the heart of this realisation were the poignant stories from hospice care volunteers who shared the account of a successful businessman in the twilight of his life battling cancer. His once ambitious eyes, now dimmed by the progression of illness, revealed a different kind of longing – not for his professional achievements but for moments missed with loved ones. In his final days, his heart ached not for the empire he built but for the simple joy of being a father, wishing his children happiness and strength in a future he would miss.
This narrative echoes the sentiments of figures like Steve Jobs, whose final words, “Oh wow, Oh wow, Oh wow,” reflected a sense of awe possibly rooted in the realisation of life’s true richness – relationships and love. Likewise, Leo Tolstoy, the esteemed author of ‘War and Peace,’ sought tranquillity in a simpler, more spiritual life, moving away from the fame and success that once defined him. Mother Teresa’s dedication to love and compassion over material wealth remains a timeless testament to the irreplaceable value of human connection and empathy.
These reflections during my trip highlighted the stark dichotomy often observed in today’s society: the relentless pursuit of wealth, where money is idolised, contrasted with those labelled ‘lazy’ for their apparent lack of interest in material gains. But is this so-called indifference truly laziness, a conscious choice for a life rich in non-materialistic values?
Reflecting on this, I’ve understood that while ambition is commendable, it should not overshadow personal health and relationships. Society often equates success with material gain, creating immense pressure to achieve wealth as a symbol of status and accomplishment. True wealth appears not solely in financial success but also in the bonds of love and care we establish.
The tragic cases of public figures like American fashion designer Kate Spade, Hong Kong singer and actor Leslie Cheung, and South Korean actor Lee Sun-kyun serve as stark reminders that material possessions and outward success are no guarantees of internal peace and happiness.
The danger of equating wealth with love and happiness becomes apparent when we observe genuine connections that flourish outside material wealth. Friendships based on shared values, family bonds strengthened by time and understanding, and acts of kindness within communities exemplify love and happiness that money cannot buy.
As we navigate the complexities of life, let us remember that the pursuit of material wealth should not overshadow the quest for authentic joy and fulfilling experiences. I urge readers to prioritise what truly enriches the soul – the love, happiness, and connections in life’s simplest moments.
Let’s reevaluate our priorities, cherish the non-materialistic treasures in life, and find balance in a world that often tips towards materialism and selfishness.
I will share more about my trip to the North another time, but for today, I just want to ramble about life’s true wealth.
Roam with Bee 
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