A Poor State of Mind

 

Just as it is a myth that wealth is nothing more than money, poverty is not only a lack of funds. Some people have very little in the way of finances who are wealthy, and many who have a great deal of money who are poor. Poverty, as with wealth, is a state of mind and not a bank balance.

When I talk of successful people who gained their success through hard work and determination, some may think I believe that all those who are poor do not work hard and are not determined. Here is the reality. Many are lacking in the sense that they have little money. I do, however, believe that unless your dream is to serve in ways that do not produce an income, you can achieve wealth through hard work and a focus on your goals. Some people are called to the mission field for an example that will never have great wealth in money. Missions do not produce products that bring in an income. Missionaries must rely on the Lord to move on the hearts of those who have finances to give. These dear people on the mission field are very much successful people.

“The difference between the rich and the poor is that the rich invest their money and spend what’s left, while the poor spend their money and invest what’s left.”

Old Saying

 

Some are poor who have chosen to live that way by possessing a poverty mindset. They do not work and feel that the world owes them. They fuss about their rights and benefits, all the while giving back very little to those they feel so free to take from. You will find that these people have a far deeper desire for money than most of the wealthiest among us. As former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher said, “It is not the creation of wealth that is wrong, but the love of money for its own sake.”

I will talk of giving later, but Scouts and Scouters must accept that not all people will be willing to work to achieve their dreams. There are those in the world who are so deeply stuck in a poverty mindset that they will forever be on the take. Where I am in full support of helping those who need help (again, more later), I believe we hurt those who can work and do not by taking care of them. It is wisdom that says you must teach these people to fish, or you allow them to go hungry. Hunger can be an excellent motivator for the able-bodied person.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey