Seek Another's Wealth

In this life, we're often told to look out for self, practice self-care, and take care of #1. But what does a most sacred book say that's rooted in spirit-led wisdom? 
1 Corinthians 10:24 says "Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor." This teaching initially inspired some meditation when I first read it many years ago while homeschooling my two children. Despite going against what we are taught growing up, following this scripture has directed an enriching path throughout my adult life. I know it may seem crazy but I'm not moved primarily by money and throughout my life I've always had more than needed to thrive. But should we really employ this practice? Our human heritage has witnessed and endured a society that has repeatedly shown little to no regard for life and the need to defend our right to fight for survival of self and our family's future. This fact is incomprehensible to process yet if we separate from fear and choose a life in faith we may find renewed meaning in our God given purpose. Let's just consider for a moment if a response toward interdependence was duplicated throughout humankind. What would our world look like? And if we actively chose our selfish desires first, what would we sacrifice in spirit to gain the world we seek? As I age, it increasingly becomes more challenging to consistently show up as my best self. We all have the same 24 hours in a day yet how do we authentically balance our many roles as a Family Member, Friend, Spouse, Parent, Leader and more? Are we working in purpose or simply pleasure? In our haste, we sometimes shun others if their physical look doesn't meet certain expectations. How do we grow as a society if we passively and actively spend increasingly more time on social media? How do we grow if we spend more money on external beauty aids versus building from within? I personally admit engaging in the addictive experience and the potential risks associated with excessive use. Years ago, I recall leading a Reel versus Real parent discussion at my neighborhood Barnes & Noble bookstore. Shortly after, it closed and a hair supply store opened in its place. I was so saddened by this that it took several years to even enter the new space! In our urban community, we have lots of hair supply stores brimming with all things that support one's desire to be viewed as beautiful and relevant. The irony of it all is that this practice can also be a source of constant overthinking, discomfort and even pain. I'm surprised (not surprised) that they all continue to thrive despite the market saturation. 
Today's digital age has created unprecedented levels of anxiety in how we look to the world for acceptance and the popularity we promote continues to supersede introspective, in the moment activities such reading a bedtime story to our children or just being there to attentively listen. Regardless of our current wellness regimen, we still have a choice regarding how to prioritize our lives and navigate a lifestyle that considers another's well-being before our own. It's the greatest free-fall of life and its treasure will find you. The joy of life really does come from genuinely helping another in need. And in so doing, you've tapped into a valuable call to action and renewed wealth.
Photo Credit: Simply Zee Imagery
Life Model: Great friend, yogi and example, Angel Jones