Fortunate One

Is it worse to be rich than poor?

The rich person toils to amass a fortune, and when he rests he fills himself with his dainties. The poor person toils to make a meager living, and if ever he rests he becomes needy. One who loves gold will not be justified; one who pursues money will be led astray by it. Many have come to ruin because of gold, and their destruction has met them face to face. It is a stumbling block to those who are avid for it, and every fool will be taken captive by it. Blessed is the rich person who is found blameless, and who does not go after gold. Who is he, that we may praise him? For he has done wonders among his people. Who has been tested by it and been found perfect? Let it be for him a ground for boasting. Who has had the power to transgress and did not transgress, and to do evil and did not do it? His prosperity will be established, and the assembly will proclaim his acts of charity. - Ecclus. 31:3-11

To be rich and not go after gold sounds like an impossibility.  What would that look like?

Perhaps it would be someone who has Spiritual Wealth, where one's riches are the connections they make with others and their peace with God.

Or maybe they are generous, giving from their monetary wealth.

They could also have an abundance of time, like a retired person, and spends that time in the aid of others.

As we age, our wealth may be in the form of good heath and wellbeing.  

And finally, when we pass, we could leave a legacy that is positive and good.

So, our wealth may be monetary and still have its roots in generosity and good will toward others, or it could be other types of wealth.

To answer the question, than, no, it is not better to be poor, if being wealthy leads to sharing what one has with others in need, from money to goodness, kindness and love.

More to come...