I have this vivid memory from my childhood that always makes me smile. I was around seven years old, a bright-eyed first-grader here in the Philippines. One day, our teacher asked the class to draw what we wanted to be when we grew up. My classmates eagerly sketched firemen, doctors, and teachers. They had such clear visions of their future selves, while I sat there, feeling a bit lost. None of those careers called out to me, but then, an idea sparked.
I drew myself leaning against a towering three-story house, which I proudly labeled as my home. Beneath my drawing, I wrote, “I want to be a rich man.”
It was an unconventional response, especially for a child. It wasn’t about a specific profession but rather a vision of a certain quality of life. Even at that tender age, I knew I didn’t want to be confined to traditional roles; I wanted a life filled with comfort and possibilities.
Robert Greene, the renowned author of “Laws of Power,” suggests that these childhood memories reveal profound truths about our inner selves. They shape our aspirations and drive us throughout our lives. And for me, this memory captures a deep-seated desire not for luxury, but for a life of quiet abundance.
Growing up, my family didn’t have much. We weren’t impoverished, but money was always tight. I’d watch my friends with their shiny new toys while I made do with what we had. This disparity left a subtle, persistent tension—a frustration quietly simmering for years.
What I longed for was financial peace of mind. Imagine sitting in a restaurant, ordering whatever you fancy without glancing at the prices. Or being able to seek the best medical care without worrying about the cost. It’s about the freedom to choose, the comfort of knowing that financial constraints won’t dictate your life choices.
Now, in my middle years, this vision still holds true. I yearn for a sense of abundance, not because I’m materialistic—far from it. It’s not about acquiring things for the sake of it, but about the security and freedom they represent. It’s the difference between saving up for months to afford something and being able to purchase it without a second thought.
Whether it’s a delightful dinner at a fancy restaurant, a stay at a luxurious hotel, or even buying a new gadget or car, it’s about having the means to enjoy life fully. It’s not the possessions that bring happiness, but the ability to live without financial worries, to experience life’s joys and comforts without hesitation.
This dream, this vision of abundance, isn’t just about wealth. It’s about creating a life where we can savor every moment, embrace every opportunity, and live generously, with open hearts and open hands.
Quiet Abundance is the goal I have always yearned for. How about you? What would be yours?
