Some time ago, I returned from India with a backpack full of unique experiences and adventures. After each of my trips, I reflect. After every encounter with a foreign culture or an interesting person, I learn something new. I soak up the impressions like a sponge. I feel very lucky to have been born with this curiosity about the whole world. In India, I particularly noticed how far women there are still from achieving equality with men. And how rich we women can feel in the western world because we have a voice and rights. Because we are free. Things were very different for our grandmothers. We stand on their shoulders today. For me, true wealth therefore means being able to do the things that you love passionately.
"Every encounter has made me richer inside"
I myself feel incredibly rich inside because I simply love living. And everyone I've met so far has added to my inner wealth. First of all, of course, my mother. In order to have confidence in this world, to feel safe, parents have to let their children grow up in peace. I myself want to convey to my children every day that they are loved. That they are great just the way they are and don't need to correct anything about themselves. I want them to develop a healthy sense of self-worth that gives them lasting inner security and strength.
This happiness of being safe and free - that is what makes us truly rich. It doesn't matter how wealthy you are. Of course it is nice to treat yourself to something when you have fought or worked for it. And nobody should be ashamed of what they own. At best, however, we can share our wealth (inner and outer) and create moments of happiness for others: an important experience. I love giving and giving gifts.
But above all, we should pay more attention to what's right in our lives instead of always seeing what's wrong. We think far too often about what needs to happen for everything to be perfect. The fast pace of the world prevents us from really looking at the things around us. To recognize their beauty. To notice the moment that is so unique - and yet so quickly gone again. We must not miss it. Those who live more in the here and now, instead of always in yesterday or tomorrow, can also increase their inner wealth.
Yours sincerely, Barbara Becker
