#becontent

I was recently at a Christmas party with people I have only met a handful of times. Most of the party was family aside from the significant others, like myself. There were inside jokes, nicknames, and memories shared that I struggled to keep up with. Along with the exclusive talk there was also a subtler theme throughout the party... and it wasn’t the alcohol consumption.

It seemed as if everyone was concerned about money. Talks of who brought the most food, who hosted in their house, who has the newer appliances, who’s paying for their kids school. It seemed that not letting your kids have student loans was a big deal. 

One of the conversations I ended up in naturally turned into my schooling. Questions about my masters program and future career came up. Anytime I talk with someone about seminary I get asked if I’m going to be a priest. To answer that question for you... no I’m not going to be a priest!

This person started telling me about their bachelors degree and what they do. In this conversation they assured me countless times that they make a lot of money. They make the top dollar they can. They get paid the same amount as the job they would have with a masters degree.

I realized two things during this chat

1. The desire to appear happier or wealthier than others is not just a factor on social media. It’s a real life issue that affects every generation. This comparison trap is not a millennial thing that came from using the internet. 
2. Everyone has a story. This conversation was very showy on the surface, but under that showiness was a person desiring something. They wanted recognition and for someone to congratulate them. It seemed they needed someone to show they cared about them. 

As a reminder to myself and to you be content with what you have, do what makes you happy, and just because someone puts on a show does not make them better or more important than you. You are important and have a purpose. Wealth or debt does not determine your value as a human being.

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