I am fascinated by the world we live in today, America in particular…
What was once the shining beacon of hope, leadership, and freedom around the world, is fast becoming a wasteland divided – with looters on one side, and the sheeple who willingly trade-in their pride, their dreams, and their honor as men – in exchange for hand-outs like social security, unemployment, and food stamps, referred to as “benefits” by the looters.
The Land of the Free, and the Home of The Brave, has become the “Land of the Slaves and Home of The Victims”.
I see this every day, as pleads for deals and freebies flood my inbox from moochers who name every excuse under the sun, as to why I should give my knowledge and my expertise to them from free, because “I owe them”, just like the government owes them, their boss owes them, and their spouse owes them.
They blame money, and those who have it, for the problems of the world. They call money the root of all evil.
Is that the case?
Well today I’d like to share with you some of the most profound words I’ve ever experienced, which will stay with me for the rest of my life. If we’re to hold onto the freedom, the ideas, and values they stand for, they represent the last great hope for our country, and our shrinking world…
And as for you… How you feel about the following story will determine your financial fate, and your life.
Page 410 – “Atlas Shrugged”
“Standing unnoticed on the edge of a group, Rearden heard a woman, who had large diamond earrings and a flabby, nervous face, ask tensely, “Senior d’Anconia, what do you think is going to happen to the world?”
“Just exactly what it deserves.”
“Oh how cruel!”
Don’t you believe in the operation of moral law, madame?” Francisco asked gravely.
“I do.”
Rearden heard Bertram Scudder, outside the group, say to a girl who made some sound of indignation, “Don’t let him distrub you. You know, money is the root of all evil – and he’s the typical product of money.”
Rearden did not think that Francisco could have heard it, but he saw Francisco turning to them with a gravely courteous smile.
“So you think that money is the root of all evil? Said Francisco d’ Anconia.
Have you ever asked what is the root of money? Money is a tool of exchange, which can’t exist unless there are goods produced and men able to produce them.
Money is the material shape of the principle that men who wish to deal with one another must deal by trade, and give value for value.
Money is not the tool of the moochers, who claim your product by tears, or of the looters, who take it from you by force. Money is made possible only by the men who produce. Is that what you consider evil?
When you accept money in payment for your effort, you do so only on the conviction that you will exchange it for the product of the effort of others. It is not the moochers or the looters who give value to money. Not an ocean of tears nor all the guns in the world can transform those pieces of paper in your wallet into bread you will need to survive tomorrow.
Those pieces of paper, which should have been gold, are a token of honor – your claim upon the energy of the men who produce. Your wallet is your statement of hope that somewhere in the world around you there are men who will not default on that moral principle which is the root of money. Is that what you consider evil?
Have you ever looked for the root of production? Take a look at an electric generator and dare tell yourself that it was created by the muscular effort of unthinking brutes. Try to grow a seed of wheat without the knowledge left to you by men who had to discover it for the first time.
Try to obtain your food by means of nothing but physical motions and you’ll learn that man’s mind is the root of all the goods produced and of all the wealth that has ever existed on earth.
But you say that money is made by the strong at the expense of the weak? What strength do you mean? It is not the strength of guns or muscles. Wealth is the product of a man’s capacity to think. Then is money made by the man who invents a motor at the expense of those who did not invent it?
Is money made by the intelligent at the expense of the fools? By the able at the expense of the incompetent? By the ambitious at the expense of the lazy? Money is made – before it can be looted or mooched – made by the effort of every honest man, each to the extent of his ability.
An honest man is the one who knows that he can’t consume more than he has produced.
To trade by means of money is the code of men of good will. Money rests on the axiom that every man is the owner of his mind and his effort. Money allows no power to prescribe the value of your effort except the voluntary choice of the man who is willing to trade you his effort in return. Money permits you to obtain for your goods and your labor that which they are worth to the men who buy them, but no more.
Money permits no deals except those to mutual benefit by the unforced judgment of the traders. Money demands of you the recognition that men must work for their own benefit, not for their own injury, for their gain, not their loss – the recognition that they are not beats of burden, born to carry the weight of your misery – that you must offer them values, not wounds – that the common bond among men is not the exchange of suffering, but the exchange of goods.
Money demands that you sell, not your weakness to men’s stupidity, but your talent to their reason; it demands that you buy, not the shoddiest they offer, but the best that your money can find.
And when men live by trade – with reason, not force, as their final arbiter- it is the best product that wins, the best performance, the man of best judgment and highest ability – and the degree of a man’s productiveness is the degree of his reward.
This is the code of existence whose tool and symbol is money. Is that what you consider evil? But money is only a tool. It will take you wherever you wish, but it will not replace you as the driver.
It will give you the means for satisfaction of your desires, but it will not provide you with desires. Money is the scourge of men who attempt to reverse the law of causality – the men who seek to replace the mind by seizing the products of the mind.
Money will not purchase happiness for the man who has no concept of what he wants: money will not give him a code of values, if he’s evaded the knowledge of what to value, and it will not provide him with a purpose, if he’s evaded the choice of what to seek. Money will not buy intelligence for the fool, or admiration for the coward, or respect for the incompetent.
The man who attempts to purchase the brains of his superiors to serve him, with his money replacing his judgment, ends up by becoming the victim of his inferiors.
The men of intelligence desert him, but the cheats and the frauds come flocking to him, drawn by a law which he has not discovered: that no man may be smaller than his money. Is this the reason why you call it evil?
Only the man who does not need it, is fit to inherit wealth – the man who would make his own fortune no matter where he started. If an heir is equal to his money, it serves him; if not, it destroys him. But you look on and you cry that money corrupted him.
Did it?
Or did he corrupt his money?
Do not envy a worthless heir; his wealth is not yours and you would have done no better with it. Do not think that it should have been distributed among you; loading the world with fifty parasites instead of one, would not bring back the dead virtue which was the fortune. Money is a living power that dies without its root. Money will not serve the mind that cannot match it. Is this the reason you call it evil?
Money is your means of survival. The verdict you pronounce upon the source of your livelihood is the verdict you pronounce upon your life.
If the source is corrupt, you have damned your own existence. Did you get your money by fraud? By pandering to men’s vices or men’s stupidity? By catering to fools, in the hope of getting more than your ability deserves? By lowering your standards? By doing work you despise for purchasers you scorn? If so, then your money will not give you a moment’s or a penny’s worth of joy.
Then all the things you buy will become, not a tribute to you, but a reproach; not an achievement, but a reminder of shame. Then you’ll scream that money is evil. Evil, because it would not pinch-hit for your self-respect? Evil, because it would not let you enjoy your depravity? Is this the root of your hatred of money?
Money will always remain an effect and refuse to replace you as the cause. Money is the product of virtue, but it will not give you virtue and it will not redeem your vices. Money will not give you the unearned, neither in matter nor in spirit. Is this the root of your hatred of money?
Or did you say that it’s the love of money that’s the root of all evil?
To love a thing is to know and love its nature. To love money is to know and love the fact that money is the creation of the best power within you, and your passkey to trade your effort for the effort of the best among men. It’s the person who would sell his soul for a nickel, who is the loudest in proclaiming his hatred of money – and he has good reason to hate it.
The lovers of money are willing to work for it. They know they are able to deserve it.
Let me give you a tip on a clue to men’s characters: the man who damns money has obtained it dishonorably; the man who respects it has earned it. Run for your life from any man who tells you that money is evil.
That sentence is the leper’s bell of an approaching looter. So long as men live together on earth and need means to deal with one another – their only substitute, if they abandon money, is the muzzle of a gun.
But money demands of you the highest virtues, if you wish to make it or keep it. Men who have no courage, pride, or self-esteem, men who have no moral sense of their right to their money and are not willing to defend it as they defend their life, men who apologize for being rich – will not remain rich for long.
They are the natural bait for the swarms of looters that stay under rocks for centuries, but come crawling out at the first smell of a man who begs to be forgiven for the guilt of owning wealth. They will hasten to relieve him of the guilt – and his life, as he deserves.
Then you will see the rise of the men of the double standard – the men who live by force, yet count on those who live by trade to create the value of their looted money – the men who are the hitchhikers of virtue. In a moral society, these are the criminals, and the statues are written to protect you against them.
But when a society establishes criminals-by-right and looters-by-law – men who use force to seize the wealth of disarmed victims – then money becomes its creator’ avenger. Such looters believe it safe to rob defenseless men, once they’ve passed a law to disarm them.
But their loot becomes the magnet for other looters, who get it from them as they got it. Then the race goes, not to the ablest at production, but to those most ruthless at brutality. When force is the standard, the murderer wins over the pickpocket. And then that society vanishes, in a spread of ruins and slaughter.
Do you wish to know whether that day is coming? Watch money.
Money is the barometer of a society’s virtue. When you see that trading is done, not by consent, but by compulsion – when you see that in order to produce, you need to obtain permission from men who produce nothing – when you see that money is flowing to those who deal, not in goods, but in favors – when you see that men get richer by graft and by pull than by work, and your laws don’t protect you against them, but protect them against you – when you see corruption being rewarded and honesty becoming a self-sacrifice – you may know that your society is doomed.
Money is so noble a medium that it does not compete with guns and it does not make terms with brutality. It will not permit a country to survive as half-property, half loot.
Whenever destroyers appear among men, they start by destroying money, for money is men’s protection and the base of a moral existence. Destroyers seize gold and leave it to its owners in a counterfeit pile of paper. This kills all objective standards and delivers men into the arbitrary power of an arbitrary setter of values.
Gold was an objective value, an equivalent of wealth produced. Paper is a mortgage on wealth that does not exist, backed by a gun aimed at those who are expected to produce it.
Paper is a check drawn by legal looters upon an account which is not theirs: upon the virtue of the victims. Watch for the day when it bounces, marked: Account overdrawn.
When you have made evil the means of survival, do not expect men to remain good. Do not expect them to stay moral and lose their lives for the purpose of becoming the fodder of the immoral. Do not expect them to produce, when production is punished and looting rewarded. Do not ask, ‘who is destroying the world?’ You are.
You stand in the midst of the greatest achievements of the greatest productive civilization and you wonder why it’s crumbling around you, while you’re damning its life-blood – money.
You look upon money as the savages did before you, and you wonder why the jungle is creeping back to the edge of your cities. Throughout men’s history, money was always seized by looters of one brand or another, whose names changed, but whose method remained the same: to seize wealth by force and to keep the producers bound, demeaned, defamed, deprived of honor.
That phrase about the evil of money, which you mouth with such righteous recklessness, comes from a time when wealth was produced by the labor of slaves – slaves who repeated the motions once discovered by somebody’s mind and left unimproved for centuries.
So long as production was ruled by force, and wealth was obtained by conquest, there was little con conquer. Yet through all the centuries of stagnation and starvation, men exalted the looters, as aristocrats of the sword, as aristocrats of birth, as aristocrats of the bureau, and despised the producers, as slaves, as traders, as shopkeepers – as industrialists.
To the glory of mankind, there was, for the first and only time in history, a country of money – and I have no higher, more reverent tribute to pay to America, for this means: a country of reason, justice, freedom, production, achievement.
For the first time, man’s mind and money were set free, and there were no fortunes-by-conquest, but only fortunes-by-work, and instead of swordsmen and slaves, there appeared the real maker of wealth, the greatest worker, the highest type of human being – the self-made man – the American Industrialist.
Until you discover that money is the root of all good, you ask for your own destruction.
When money ceases to be the tool by which men deal with one another, then men become the tools of men. Blood, whips, and guns – or dollars.
Take your choice – there is no other – and your time is running out.”
Ayn Rand – “Atlas Shrugged” : Pg 410
My fellow entrepreneurs…
We are the producers.
We are the blood of our nation.
We are the noblest representation of man-kind in the world.
This is the value I offer to you and the world, which you will buy not because you must – but because it will improve your life.
To our future…
Mike Dillard
P.S. Please leave your thoughts below, and Re-Tweet if you’d like to share this message with others…
Great job Mike.
Great post, Mike.
I’ll keep it short, I agree with you 100%.
Our founding fathers must be horrified in their graves by what the American people are allowing the politicians (who are allowing the bankers) to get away with.
We are watching football games while our entire national wealth is being given away to the likes of Goldman Sachs and their cronies.
It is beyoind time to stand up and say, NO MORE OF THIS!”
Mike Stokes
Baton Rouge, LA
Mike, fantastic post. And money is not the root of all evil, it is the “love” of money. It simply needs to be put in the right priority in one’s life. Just an outstanding post. We can choose to be victims or victors. The choice is ours. Thanks Mike and Merry Christmas.
We, as entrpreneurs, are the lifeblood of the nation. Both political parties have let us down.
But it is this current administration in particular which has declared war on Capitalism, individual success and liberty, and in general, many of the other things which have made the United States of America the best country on earth.
The best thing that ALL of us can do is to become successful! Jim Rohn said it best…..”The way to greatness is to find a way to serve many people.”
America will get through this current crisis because of people like Mike Dillard, and other entrpreneurs like all of us, and because of our Faith in God.
The American will cannot be estinguished. Always remember, the sweetest revenge……is SUCCESS!
Keep up the great work Mike. Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, and Happy New Year to everyone out there. Here is to 2010 being our best year ever!
So many times have I seen the quote “money is the root of all evil” but it is a misquote. It’s actually “the love of money is the root of evil”
I agree with all that you and Ayn Rand say about money and production and honor. What the original quote meant is not contrary to that in fact I believe it compliments it. It’s when we start to “love money” that some people lose site of the meaning behind it. It’s not the love of the creation of it, the love of the power behind it the love of the honor of it that is the root of evil. It is the love of money without knowing and loving what is needed in the production of it.
Thanks for reminding us.
Mike,
Excellent post, it is on the back of the entrepreneur our nation and the world will prosper. With hopes to continue empowering others for steps of greatness,
Cheers,
Josh
Mike,
The perfect passage from the perfect book at the perfect time.
Money has become something that it wasn’t when it was first invented. As Rearden said, it was created to simplify the transaction process and level the playing field across cultures, states, languages, people.
Now, it has taken on an almost human persona for most people. Money is evil, money is cruel, money gives happiness, money destroys. All human qualities or abilities.
As you say, which side are you on? It is a very simple difference in mindset – are you providing value for which others will hand over their money, or do you believe you are “owed” something regardless of your value to society?
Producer vs. Looter.
Excellent post my friend -
John
Agree FULLY! It’s been a while since I’ve read Atlas Shrugged and it was a great recap. Good to see the book is gaining so much popularity these days. We see it displayed in Barnes and Noble, which might be a good sign for the country. But only time will tell… Great content Mike!
Hey Mike,
I remember reading Atlas Shrugged about 30 years ago. I spent an entire weekend in my basement apartment devouring it. It changed me. Amazing how much those words still ring true…
Timeless values, timeless wisdom. Thank you so much for sharing!
Best,
Shecky
(Same post, i just corrected a couple of typos)
We, as entrepreneurs, are the lifeblood of the nation. Both political parties have let us down.
But it is this current administration in particular which has declared war on Capitalism, individual success and liberty, and in general, many of the other things which have made the United States of America the best country on earth.
The best thing that ALL of us can do is to become successful! Jim Rohn said it best…..”The way to greatness is to find a way to serve many people.”
America will get through this current crisis because of people like Mike Dillard, and other entrepreneurs like all of us, and because of our Faith in God.
The American will cannot be extinguished. Always remember, the sweetest revenge……is SUCCESS!
Keep up the great work Mike. Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, and Happy New Year to everyone out there. Here is to 2010 being our best year ever!
Hey Mike, Great post! Merry Christmas to you and yours and congrats on your recent marriage!
This is so wonderful.
Beautifully said and meant.
Indeed the losers are the ones that spit on money as the root of evil. Money is a great tool that you can shape to your imagination, talent and wisdom. Lo if you have none, to be a man is to have the capacity to create and exchange and provide and share and give as much as your heart´s desire.
First prove yourself.
This is the correct train of thought for sure!!!!
I agree and feel great others feel the same.. Always good stuff Mike….
Thank you!
Atlas Shrugged will become part of my “bonuses” from now on.
Hi Mike,
Have enjoyed getting your emails and I love this part of the book and it kind of does say it all.
I posted the reprint in another blog of mine a few years ago but man, is it ever more relevant now. We are living in the time of Moochers from the top down.
I only hope the people wake up before it is too late.
And to anyone out there that has not read Atlas Shrugged I highly suggest you do so. It will name and explain exactly what is going on in the world right now and what their goals are.
Good job Mike! Thanks for sharing this and reminding me why we do what we do.
Who is John Galt and I have to believe that Atlas will shrug if this keeps up.
Cheers,
Andrew Anderson
Thank you Mike, I read (more like struggled through) Atlas Shrugged many years ago. I am now reading it again and find your post is timely not just for me but for our country as a whole. I will see to it that everyone on my contact lists have the chance to read this excerpt along with your comments.
Sincerely,
Woody Andrews
Mike,
You have never been shy to express yourself for which I am thankful.
To say that I completely agree is an understatement. We have been “sheeple” for too long. It is past time to make a difference.
Mike,
After reading Atlas Shrugged at age 16, my life was changed forever. Dagny Taggart became my hero. Every major life decision I made from then on – was molded by what I learned in Atlas Shrugged.
Your reach is farther than mine. I hope the ones who read this post will actually pick up the book and learn from it.
Roxana Hannah
I agree,never the less,unfortunately most of us were not taught these things,it has to be learned,and the only way we can find true,and lasting happiness is by doing for others,money has nothing to do with it,just temporary,something to think about.
Excellent post, Mike. Thanks. The intent of the scripture is “The LUST for money is the root of all evil”. Those who STEAL through deception and covetousness the fruitful labor of others without producing equitable wealth for trade themselves. Practical solutions to the National economic morass: http://www.monetary.org
Yes Sir…
No finer words have ever been spoken in regards to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
“I swear, by my life and my love of it, that I will never live for the sake of another man, nor ask another man to live for mine.”
~ Ayn Rand
Why is it that people always mess that one up. Money is not inherently evil or otherwise. It is a tool beautifully explained in much of what you posted. Even biblically speaking, money is NOT the root of evil. The quote is “for the LOVE of money is A ROOT of all kinds of evil. (NIV 1 Timothy 6:10″. On that note, if your devotion is to money to the point that you exclude all else (your family, your spouse, your kids, your friends, health, and those truly in need), that certainly is wrong. And, if you believe in the words of the Bible, then loving money (a type of devotion) more than God would not be a good thing, since He is a jealous God and states in His commandments, “You shall have no other gods before me. (Exodus 20:3)”.
You would think that if people are going to refer to one of the first and oldest references of a quote regarding money and evil, they would at least get it right, and its context.
For those of you who do not believe in the Bible, I’d be curious to know what you use for a moral compass and a moral anchor that has stood the test of time.
Mike,
What an awesome deposition on the truth about money. Thank you for sharing it. Our great nation needs more people like you in high places. I will share this link with my list. Karen
Entrepreneurs have been, are and always will be the lifeblood of our great nation. Much less would be achieved and attained in our society without entrepreneurs like us and what we do on a daily basis. The words ring true today as they have in the past. Great article Mike…as usual. I would expect nothing less from you.
All my best,
Don
This is one of the most fascinating reads regarding wealth I have ever seen.
Thank you so much for sharing this with us, Mike.
I found many reasons to read this text here. It is true that sometimes, even me, I forget what is money … It is time for me to bump my sleeves because it is 100% true that to get money you must work and make some hard decisions. Above all have fun to win! I had to many friends who think money is evil. I will share this text to anybody who say that money is evil!
Awesome quote, Mike! A great reminder as we head toward a New Year where many spend at least a modicum of time reflecting on the past year and the one to come.
I also appreciated that little line in there: “an honest man is one who knows he cannot consume more than he produces.” I wish I’d heard that as a child and will pass it on to my 5 kids who, like me and the rest of our culture, need to be reminded of the imperative to focus on producing value, contributing more than we consume.
Thanks Mike!
Cheers!
Stevie Knight
Thanks, Mike. I had not heard of this book until now, but I must say I’ll be reading it very soon.
Much appreciated.
Well said. I have never read that book, but I think I just might have to. Great and informative post.
We are the producers.
As Kiyosaki said in The Conspiracy of Rich. Those who know that the old economy is gone and are making the changes today to adapt to the new rules of money are the wealthy and smart ones of the future.
Your article has hit it out of the ballpark.
Thank you for your inspiration and wisdom.
Dear Mike, money is primery issue this world, depend the way they manage the money. There are many rich people this world, they don’t help those who are poor. I’ve many seen stuggling to survived,no medecine, food, no clothe, no housine. Exemple me, this holiday seasons is thaught for me, I eat once a day, humain bieng needs decent meals three times a day, then America is first nation in this planet.
Can you give us some samples of poeple following this technics?
thank you
WOW you cant ride on the fence you are either on the side of
evil (money being the root to to all evil side note the bible at 1tim-6:10 says for the love of money is the root of all injurious things)or your on the side of money that done in a honest manner will produce ture value of ones effort
I have read most of Ayn Rand’s books, and I think she is right on with her perspective. One of the defining factors that is a key point for me is that her perspective is not about GREED. That is where I think people get hung up with her ideology.
Combining her perspective with Attraction Marketing, and add in a healthy dose of Zig Ziglar creates a mortal, compassionate model.
In Gratitude,
Wendy
I am in the process of reading that book now!!! (Good stuff)
Hi Mike..crazy..must be Ayn Rand in the air.
Been listening to Fountainhead the past week and Atlas Shrugged is next.
Interesting to listen as opposed to reading them.
I won’t comment on your post as it speaks for itself.
cheers to you and your new wife..Happy Holidays
John (Galt) Laster
No one deserves anything and nothing should be attained except through diligent work. I can’t stand the entitlement mentality.
Great read. Money of course is not evil. Money is a-moral.
I believe it takes on the nature of the person who posseses it.
It is what you do with it that matters.
“Make as much as you can make, save as much as you can save, and give as much as you can give” John Wesley
Love your emails.
Jason Baines
Mike, I see your point, and agree in theory and I’am personally motivated by such statements, but I can’t agree that it’s that simple.
America was “founded” on freedom hypocrisies that groups fight against even today. Our founding fathers knew they didn’t have all the answers and left room for growth and progress.
Atlas shrugs indeed… what happens to our society when the laymen that make our world go round give it all up for greener pastures. Reality is that an industrial society or one based on capitalism needs it’s mimimum wage workers and those workers need an environment they can at the very least dream in.
Money isn’t the root of evil… it’s the root of America.
You hit the nail on the head. “the love of money is a root of many evils” is closer to the Greek understanding of the Biblical quote. There is as much evil done by people who don’t have money as those who do.
Strange to say this when all businesses can not operate without money.
Joe
Fantastic! This is something everyone in America deserves to hear and hopefully it kindles a desire to research the principles set down by our Founding Fathers. When we understand the true value of freedom we will better understand why Patrick Henry said “Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!”
kind regards,
GWH
Outstanding Post……….
It’s 100% right on and it made my day.
Merry Christmas
Hi Mike
Yet another great post, would be marketers are often restricted in the advancement of their business due to the lack of funds to purchase the words of wisdom from those that know the answers.
Merry Christmas to you and yours.
Regards
Norman
One of my favorite passages in the book. Great choice, Mike.
That was one of the best explanations on the concept of money I have ever read or heard. Thankyou for sharing
I am investing my efforts in making money because I believe that first I must help myself and then I can help others.
Only loosers can consider money as an evil.
Thanks Mike.
Super empowering. Thanks Mike. I do really love money.
Money is a necessity.How you go about obtaining money is important.It should be worked for.What you do with it after obtaining it is further important.It should be used wisely.Share it ,if for a good cause, but only to such extent that you can afford it and to empower someone.Giving money away to make someone dependant on you is not good,because many beggars seem to do just that.
It cannot be said to be evil.If money leads to greed and selfishness and love thereof then the game is totaly different. I agree with Jack.
Mike, I have long suspected you to be a fan of Atlas Shrugged and half a paragraph into this blog I knew that you were going to reference it. ( the word “looters” confirmed it for me.) Thank you for this post. It is nice to know that others see the world as I do.
Right On Mike!
Is this not why we fight to preserve our capitalistic nation. Without the reward of money why would humans stay motivavted to do their best and make the world a better place. It takes money to feed, clothe and educate the world. The naysayers of money just want someone else to make all the sacrifice. An ancient book tells me that a slothful man can expect his just reward. As Americans, our legacy to the world has been freedom to be everything we can be which includes making money. I vote for freedom not the alternative (government control over every area of our lives).
I, too, agree with what “Atlas Shrugged” by Ayn Rand is saying in this exerpt from her book. Money is NOT the root of all evil; Man’s use of it sometimes IS evil.
I am sitting here in my Pasadena, Texas home reading through all my emails, and this one struck a very personal chord with me.
I have been searching for a way to put my 35+ years of experience as CFO/Controller/General Manager of small businesses to good use on the internet, and make some money doing something that I am good at, and that will help others.
I thought I had found it with an MLM marketing site using MLSP. I have discovered that I had a lot to learn about successful internet marketing. So after 2 months of combing through all the emails and videos and free stuff, I still have not made a dime. I still don’t know what I am doing.
I just lost my car, because I didn’t have the money to pay this month AND last month, and now the towing fee and late fee. Now they want $850.00! Yeah right!
The water to my house was turned off last thursday, so I have been getting water for myself and my dogs (and bird)from neighbors. They want $350.00 because I haven’t been able to pay that utility bill in months. I really need to bathe and wash dishes…
I am 53 years old, and I am disabled. I can no longer work a 9-5 job somewhere… and I live in a suburb of Houston, Texas ~ the 4th largest city in the United States of America with one of the greatest diversified people in the USA (legal and not so legal.) What a great opportunity I have at my feet, and I can’t stoop over and pick it up without a great deal of pain (for real!) I feel like a real dummy ~ as somewhat described in the post you just made, Mike.
But I am still here. I am still striving desperately to be the best I can be, and at the same time, help others succeed and prosper.
I am so glad to have you and your expertise on my team. I have learned a great deal from you already, and look forward to following you like a six-week old puppy until I feel like I have accomplished the goals that I have set for myself.
Thank you again, Mike, for this encouraging and thoughtful posting! I enjoyed reading again ~ a reminder of places I have been and who I was, and ever so conscious of who I am and where I am going now.
Best wishes,
Karen M. Carlisle
Mike, thank you for your post. It is very well stated. I could not agree with you more.
Thanks and Merry Christmas,
Fran Munroe
Really quite fantastic; hard hitting and absolutely true. It puts money in its place: as an act/ energy of nobility, of self-esteem, of confidence, integrity, and action.
I like it because it is not too ‘new agey” yet that is exactly what it is about: the spirituality, if you will, of money..
And the power that we give it, not the power that it has on its own-it is nothing without the meaning we give it, just as anything in life is..or is not.
My fellow entrepreneurs…
We are the producers.
We are the blood of our nation.
We are the noblest representation of man-kind in the world.
This is the value I offer to you and the world, which you will buy not
because you must – but because it will improve your life.
To our future…
Bad Ass Mike!! Bad Ass!
Do you believe as the bible says that “money is the root of all evil?” Many people do. But for the sake of setting the record straight, here is what the Bible really says: “Love of money is the root of all evil.” (1 Timothy 6:210)
You see, it’s not money itself, but your being crazy about money that begets your problems. And isn’t it true that nothing makes you crazier than not having enough money?
“Lack of money is the root of all evil,” quipped George Bernard Shaw on Maxims for Revolutionists.
Do you think he could be right?
Facts: At age 65, 95% of people who retire in the US, only have $2,500 or less in savings.
Many people today are faced with the grim reality that they cannot afford to retire.
The marginal net worth of most households on the US is negative… Most people have more in debts than they have coming in, just like our federal government.
The threshold for financial security in the IS is now pegged at an income of $100,000, but less than 1% pf all Americans earn that much.
more on money at http://forafreelife.com
“The trick to money is having some” Stuart White.
Mike,
It’s funny how people push away the very thing that they want. And really nobody wants money (it’s really just a fancy piece of paper), they want what the money gives them (time, freedom, peace of mind, or simply stuff.) If we would put our focus on being content with where we are and be in a state of gratitude, we might find that more and more greenbacks flowing our way.
Very nice job mike
Great post Mike! I love Ayn Rand work, Fist class and always makes total sense in any time period! The only way for America to stand up is to boycott those inept foolish politicians that never even ran a hot dog stand in their lives none-the less manage our tax dollars. It’s amazing that this has gone on for so long, They are indeed the looters……..
HERE HERE!
Excellent!
Among the dozens of things I do, one of them is to work on the campaign for a local Kansas City (Kansas 3rd) gentleman who is running for U.S. Congress. Mike, you hit the nail on the head! We must get back to the fundamentals; the core fundamentals that this country was founded upon. This country needs men who are willing to take a stand. Real men who are not afraid to stand up for what is right, true and honest; and defend it with their integrity; and back it up with their actions and their words.
I salute you, Sir!
Merry Christmas.
Owen
Mike,
Thank you for ALWAYS telling us like it is.
Kudos,
Cathy
Great post Mike, this should be required reading for all politicians in all the countries that call themselves democracies before we are all condemned to living in one global, totalitarian state.
Happy Christmas to you all.
Thanks for this, it was important to learn. It has bothered me that the original phrase has been misquoted so many times: “For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.” When words are left out it changes the meaning completely; it’s simply saying that so many evil things have been done because of greed and the selfish pursuit of riches. When money is desired above what it can accomplish or the good it can do, when money itself is the goal, people will do many terrible things to acquire it. When people desire to do good in the world and seek money as the means to accomplish those things, that is the proper attitude. Personally, I seek money so I can afford to have a wife and children and take care of them, and that is a good thing.
These are words of wisdom, that cause us to think about where we stand as individuals. Responsibility for our resonse lies on each person’s shoulders.
“The love of money” in the original text is referring to a passion that is unbridled, unguided and unrestrained by values of right and good, or god.
The words printed on all US currency “In God WE TRUST” is the key to the Freedoms that are the foundation of the USA. Set in stone by the pilgrim fathers with a constitution that was built on the hope found in their faith in the love and sustanance of GOD!
You have set the frame of referrence for the rebuilding of a proud and upstanding America – well done Mike
A fantastic post, Mike! Ms. Rand had a firm grasp on the reality of true capitalism, and also its detractors.
The World Climate Conference in Copenhagen bears out the core principles of this subject, with third-world despots calling for the destruction of capitalism while simultaneously holding their hands out for “reparations” for “sins” that haven’t even been committed yet!
I’m sure that the subliminal “hatred” of money (because of a lack of understanding of its true nature and function as given here) bears a large part of the responsibility for so many people “failing” in life, and particularly in our industry.
They want to “get rich quick,” not realizing that true wealth (money) is simply the measurement of the quality and quantity of service you’ve provided to others.
The “lottery mentality” prevades our industry, with eveyone looking for the “quick and easy” way out of their financial dilemma – without taking into consideration the factors and decisions they made which got them into that predicament in the first place.
Your name will never become a “household word” if you’re un-remarkable, and you’ll never attain lasting wealth by focusing only on creating that wealth. The ash-heap of history is littered with the broken bodies and spirits of people who never understood that one basic concept.
You’ve revealed yet another “secret” about yourself, Mike – you read some really GOOD books!
Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, and Season’s Greetings to all!
Thanks for sharing Mike. We need a reminder of the value of money and the respect it is due along with the respect of those who rightfully and morally earned it. I often had a problem with “prosperity ministers” preaching wealth along with the Christian gospel. However, I more recently concluded it is better that morally virtuous persons should control the wealth to keep it out of the hands of those who do illegal and/or things with money to the detriment of our society.
I agree with you Mike. This is a great country. If you really want to succeed and do well, this is the country within which to do it. Anyone who is physically and mentally able to work hard in this country can take care of themselves. Entitlements and handouts will not make this country strong. It will only tear it down.
Mike,
WOW! Talk about distributing a revelation.
I have always thought of money as simply a tool used to buy time. With time we create memories, which is really one of the true essences of being.
With that said our journeys are more about having the ability to create memories; for when it is all said and done and we lie in our final moments of our last hour, what will you be thinking about? Money or memories?
Who is John Galt?
Viewing money today, it seems we need a “Galt’s Gulch”
of our own. It appears, the mastermind, in it’s truest sense can provide such a place to create freely far from
naysayers, looters and mind-drains.
May we each enjoy such valuable connections in our lives this
Christmas Season. (Screw the PC crowd)
Value for Value…Amen
Thanks for the value in MLM System Formula!
Richard
Michael, that was heavy smack man, but the point was well made and I know you worked hard to get where your at. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Mike,
You are so right. I was paid for my labor, all my working life. After my husband died, some 20 yrs ago, I have been working hard trying to learn and earn an income from the Internet. All this time, as a retired senior citizen, I lost all my savings, and made no money! I have been coned, scammed and out and out defrauded. My S.S., that I paid into as a TRUST FUND, is being squandered by our Government. I was under the impression that a TRUST could not be tampered with! I must be living in limbo, not the United States of America!
Mike, I receive a lot of emails from a long list of people, but take very few seriously. You are an exception and are on a very short list of those I follow. Your content is excellent, its’ value is obvious, but more than that you lead by example.
Thanks again for sharing.
Mike,
See what marriage has done to you already! HA HA HAAAA
It’s amazing how relevant this is today just as it was when it was first written years ago.
Thanks for sharing Ayn Rand, as well as your thoughts, with people who may not be familiar with Atlas Shrugged.
Later,
Gene
Thanks for posting this timely message! Encouraging and truthful…falls in line with Scripture. Money is not only NOT evil, but is merely the temporal vehicle of transactions and reflects one’s faith emphasis in life. However, when the focus is so tightly focused on money out of fear, and the obtaining of it becomes WORSHIP (taking such supreme dominance over worshiping the Creator God — giver of all good gifts) –then it becomes evil. Letting go and letting God reign and empower us with His Truth will set us free!
Thanks, again, Mike for your message!
So, Mike, thank you and Merry Christmas! Ayn Rand was a troubled individual, but a genius who’s destiney it was to write about these truths… I love her books. I want to recommend “End The Fed” by Ron Paul, and ask that readers be sure to sign the online petition to Audit The Fed. It’s time for freedom loving Americans to take back the reigns of power from the looters while we still can, for our children’s and their children’s sake. God bless and keep up the good work!
MIKE,
Awesome post. Simple economics… it’s amazing that we don’t teach these things in kindergarten. It’s the basis of everything we will do for the rest of our lives. And it’s why this Copenhagen thing scares me so much. They’re putting a global government in place to take our money to give to third world countries because (they say) it’s getting warm out. What a crock. The scientists lied. They don’t deny it. They admit it. But, they say we should still believe them. Ugh, I’ll leave it at that.
JOCELYN…
I agree with the post money is not the root of all evil but, the Bible says, LOVE OF MONEY is the root of all evil. It’s good to understand money as a tool and that we have to have a product or service to trade for that money. But, keep it in perspective. It’s a tool.
MORE READING
It would be good for all to know the cycle of freedom
• From bondage to spiritual truth
• From spiritual faith to great courage
• From great courage to liberty
• From liberty to abundance
• From abundance to selfishness
• From selfishness to complacency
• From complacency to apathy
• From apathy to dependency
• From dependency back again to bondage
http://www.humanevents.com/article.php?id=34896
Brilliant post. Frighteningly “on the money”. In Australia we have such a strong welfare mentality and culture of entitlement that it is terrifying. Our (extremely) left wing Government (federally and in every State and Territory) is busily whipping up the politics of envy against small business people (who represent our middle class). We are the engine room of our country, and are being constantly told we must “do our bit” and “pull our weight” in order to support the latest round of welfare handouts, stimulus payments and creation of more public service positions.
Those in our country who are second and third generation welfare recipients are enabled to wallow in their victimhood, because it is their “right” to opt not to accept a job they don’t want.
To be poor and uneducated is to be a part of the problem. To be a high level public servant with your snout in the trough is another.
Great post Mike.
salut,
je voudrai faire tt ça car je trouve mike tres eloquent je l admire je ne peux me passer de ses messages mais seulmt je suis en france et que je sais pas encore si c possible de le faire et en plus j ai pas de site internet, et je n ai pas beaucoup de connaissance sur le MLM et le marketing
je parle pas bien l anglais et je lis un peu il faut que je le traduise en français
c est ça mon probleme mais j ai une entiere confiance en cette opportunité
peut etre il y aura une solution
merci
Great stuff Mike! Well said and a message that needs to be spread across the masses.
This is so basic why can’t people understand this about money and what it stands for?
My I suggest that if anyone has not read Atlas Shrugged, at least read the Wiki.
Good stuff, Mike. Thanks for thinking outside of the box in a manner that is so apt on so many levels.
Outstanding!! I also read Atlas Shrugged about 35 years ago along with The Fountainhead and many of Ayn Rand’s other books. How great to see a fellow affectionado bring her wisdom back to life. It is remarkable to see how accurately they are being played-out in our country today. It is so sad to see the looters and white collar criminals gaining such domination in our society. I can only hope that by circulating material like this to heighten awareness, that perhaps enough good men and women can begin to reclaim the values that our founding fathers, who truly understood this philosophy, worked so hard to establish.
Mike you know, you have a knack for finding the best books and information out there. I think I’ve read nearly everything that you have told your subscribers to, and you haven’t let me down yet. Yet again another awesome story.
I know exactly how you feel though. I haven’t been doing this for 10 years, so I don’t have thousands of people begging for freebies (yet), but I mean I still get those emails all the time.
People to me, are out there looking for something that doesn’t exist. They think if they could just find that one book, if they could just have that one “big” break, if they could have help from that one person that they would get rich in a second, even though the people that do make it didn’t get “lucky”. They worked their asses off and deserve every penny of what they make.
Then come the excuses that they can’t do this or that because of their financial situation. I mean sometimes I get it, some opportunities can get expensive, but come on I sell my book for 27 bucks. They want to start a business from scratch, but aren’t willing to invest 27 bucks in themselves.
I’m no psychology major, but something’s messed up there.
Again thanks for the info. I appreciate it.
Merry Christmas everyone!
Hi Mike
I really enjoyed the article and found it completely interesting. I will sign-up today with carbon copy, BiB and your program as soon as i can. Money has been tight since i became ill and was forced to give up my foster home due to landlord in forclosure, because Iam a single foster parent with no one to back me. My disire is firmly to learn and make this networkmarketing work for me and retrieve a home for fostercare. I also have a non-profit group IS A TALENT DEVELOPMENT GROUP. By using the vehicle of music and performing arts. Kids For A Better Society is committed to encourage and direct them to REAL programs. My group is made up on youth and emancipating youth. I have been following this program for about a year. I signed up under Brian Fanale who has keept me in the loop of info. due to my low income and past illness i was unable to keep up. However this is a NEW YEAR!!! IAM BACK TO WORK AND EXCITED COMMITTED TO MAKING THIS WORK FOR ME. I REALIZE I HAVE A MUCH TO LEARN BUT I LOVE LEARNING AND READY FOR A CHANGE.
Thank you for your dedication
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!
GOD BLESS.
Hey Mike:
A very, very powerful message!
MONEY – ‘the root of all evil’? => NO.
It’s the LOVE of money that is (it’s Biblical).
Financial guru Robert Kiyosaki teaches us that “CASH is TRASH”.
He recommends diversifying with increased holdings of Gold and Silver.
My own theory is that some people are inherently evil – with, or without money,
While others are characterized with kindness and generosity – with, or without money.
It’s just that money exposes what’s actually inside the person who has it.
Money is purely a tool, either for good – or for evil.
Place it in anyone’s hands and it will be like holding a mirror to their soul.
Take 9/11 as an example…
Q – Were the terrorists “evil” before they secured the finances to pull off their devastating act?
Or was the money merely a “tool” in their already grubby, sick minds?
Pure CAPITALISM is alive and well — but (Wall Street) CORPORATISM has failed us miserably.
Here in Canada, we are very fortunate in that our Chartered Banks are very solid (NO Failures).
But both of our countries are far from “over” the grim economic realities ahead.
Your message above should be cause for serious reflection by ALL of us.
THANK YOU Mike, for who YOU are!
Warmly / Peter A.
Thanks Mike…this couldn’t have come at a better time. YES!as usual, it comes down to a choice: to be the victor or the victim. Unfortunately, time is running out, in other words, the house is burning and the clock is running.
In addition, to para-phrase a line in an awesome movie called “Forrest Gump,”"right on man, you said it all.”
The best to you and yours this Holiday Season,
JC
Hi Mike:
I definitely feel a connection to what you have to say. You are certainly one of my mentors and I feel blessed that I have had the opportunity to personally learn from you…..not just the technical things that you teach….but also your philosophies.
I have been spending some time this morning on personal development and have been listening to Bob Proctor dealing with the Eleven Forgotten Laws. I just completed the Law of Thinking and the Law of Supply. Then I received your e-mail which resonates nicely with what I have been learning from Bob Proctor and many others.
People who want money to just stash it away are selfish, greedy people. Having money just for the sake of having it is crazy and those people contribute nothing to society.
I was interested in how you started your e-mail telling us about people that are wanting something for nothing from you….feeling that they were entitled. Yes…that’s the mentality of so many folks today.
I know you are extremely generous with your knowledge and your time and it’s not surprising that some people will attempt to take advantage. However, each one of us has to work for our own rewards. Money is just one way to measure our success but for many other people their success is measured in various other ways.
No…money is not a dirty word!! However, what we do with that money when we have it is another story. We then have the power to do good or evil.
People have to be educated in this day and age in the Law of Abundance. There is plenty to go around for everyone. However, they are not going to receive by expecting handouts. We were created to work and think our goals into reality.
Thanks again, Mike, for contributing to my day in such a positive way. I truly appreciate you.
Jan
Well Said !
Just as Power in the wrong hands feeds corruption, Money in the wrong hands devalues everything we stand for.
Power, when used in moderation, can change the world for the better. It can provide hope, stability, morality, and ingenuity.
Money, when handled properly, can turn goals into dreams and dreams into reality. It can aid the sick and injured back to health. It creates a pathway for Success !
Money is definitely NOT the root of all evil… People ARE the root of all evil.
Evil stems from our decisions and actions. Honesty And Integrity And Persistence Will Set You FREE !
It’s not the evil of money that’s destroying the world…
It’s the love of money… Which is the root of all evil.
Thanks Mike,
That book molded my thinking over 40 years ago and is a beacon still.
In Joe’s comment above he states the cycle of freedom:
• From bondage to spiritual truth
• From spiritual faith to great courage
• From great courage to liberty
• From liberty to abundance
• From abundance to selfishness
• From selfishness to complacency
• From complacency to apathy
• From apathy to dependency
• From dependency back again to bondage
If you look closely at this list it is easy to figure out where we as a nation are in the cycle ~ which is way too close to the bottom. Through out history the cycle has repeated itself over and over, and now we are no different. Great post Mike. Your insight is something we all need to strive for. May God Bless us as a nation to become what we once were.
Thanks for the courage to post this, Mike. I read Ayn Rand about 10 yrs. ago & thought, “how true”. I would suggest everyone reading the entire book, which is entertaining as well as thought provoking.
Atlas Shrugged is a classic. I read it after Randy Gage recommended it, and I emphasized STRONGLY with those guys who did all the producing. Gosh…those moochers made me sick!
Please keep up the good work!
Thanks Mike,
I Read Atlas Shrugged 20 years ago..Time for a re: Read
Happy Holiday’s
Cabby Ken
Mike!
You are so right. Last week I had a wacko cussing at me because I would not mentor him for free. Normally I do some gratis mentoring to deserving entrepreneurs, but when someone demands it, I bow up very quickly.
Keep up the great work!
I’m with you all the way!
Well done Mike.
Mostly, because you are not afraid to stand up and be “Politically In-correct”.
Merry Christmas
jack Shuford
Awesome post, Mike.
One of my most favorite Rand quotes is: “Wealth is the product of man’s capacity to think.”
I’m hoping your post inspires those who have not read Ayn Rand to make the commitment to read Atlas Shrugged and Fountainhead.
Bob Spiro mentioned in his post “The Trick To Money Is Having Some.” by Stuart Wilde. Great book. It was published back in the 80′s when he wrote about the times we’re living in right now. He writes about the inevitable conclusion of the then present day policies – which is the massive wealth transfer and the destruction of the middle class. Prophetic stuff – although it is a bit “new agey” – going into depth on money as a symbol of man’s productive efforts, which are a “a product of man’s capacity to think.” It’s not difficult to be a prophet and a seer if you are awake with your eyes open!
Keep posting on ideas such as these. With our influence and reach, we can help awaken millions!
James Chapman
P.S. If you haven’t seen it, here’s an interesting vid of Ron Paul commenting on Ayn Rand’s influence on him: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MjwuGHPilwI
To sum it all up Mike, 1 Timothy Chapter 6 verses 9 and 10:
9. But they that are rich fall into many temptations and snares, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown people in destruction and perdition. (Not all people, but it does happen to a lot of them. Tiger Woods for example)
10. For the LOVE of money is the root of ALL evil: which while some coveted after, they have departed from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
Note: The keywords to look at above are Love and All. I have heard many mis-quote this verse and say money is the root of all evil, but that is not true, as we can clearly see, that Paul was warning Timothy that it is the LOVE of money that is the root of ALL evil. Money is a Great Tool and be used as such, Just as Mike Dillard says.
Awesome post, Mike! Really tackles that entitlement mentality that has become a pandemic in our society. We owe it to ourselves to rise above to take, and keep, control of our own lives and inspire others to do the same.
I agree with what Jason said
Jason Says:
December 18th, 2009 at 9:29 pm
“It’s not the evil of money that’s destroying the world…
It’s the love of money… Which is the root of all evil.”
In other words…GREED
Money! money! It is the love of what a man can do to, or with other, that brings about change of state of mine. change is always creative in the throws of motion! What a good leader,or shall they do is then define. Don’t think to Long about the acting out on the love it, but sound judgment of self to create balancing a hole. yes! It would be along night if day got mad and was on hold for the new comers, and they are on there way.
This is a really great story about what it means to live in country where there’s true freedom for anybody that seeks it. Bringing value to yourself and passing it on in an even exchange is what this country is really about.
This information will get people to understand what money really means and those that get it with honesty, work and desire to better themselves will always be respected by honest people that get it.
BRAVO, MR. MIKE DILLARD !
BRAVO AND OF THE PARTICIPANTS IN COMMENTARY, BUT ( always have one “BUT”), THEREFORE BE CAREFUL FROM THE SOCIALISM AND COMMUNISM( or postcommunism), THAT THEN WILL BE “CONTENTS” TO LIVE AND WITH $400-$480 SALARY/MONTHLY OR WITH $150 – $200 PENSION/MONTHLY…..
M E R Y C H R I S T M A S O N A L L ! ! !
Hey Mike,
Great food for thought.
Money is an object.Therefore it can not be evil or good.
A wise man once told me,during a period in my life,when
I thought money was bad that
“Money makes a good man better and a bad man worse”
I’m a good man and I want to do more good for my community.
Money will be the tool I use to make things better for all.
Merry Christmas to you and the ones you love….
Mike, what a great article. This hits home, I just wish more people would get it. I hope we don’t wait until it is to late for all of us who really care.
thanks mike for sharing and caring for a better world . yes it,s amazing how words can be miscontrued and propaganda from governments can change the world if dull minded ignorant people don,t care for a better world .the honest people of this world must be wary of the evil and always make a stand.god be with those people and give them strength and wisdom. Merry Christmas to all and god bless through his son Jesus.
“Run for your life from any man who tells you that money is evil.” That pretty much sums it up – I think money is the “root” of all good in the world and I have a duty to make as much of it as I can for that reason. This was a great message, though it was a little long. Let’s all go out and make money and help as many other people make money as we can – not the ones who have negative attitudes about it – we can’t do anything to help those people. Thank you Mike, for all you do.
you said’s word was very profound implications.i like whay your word.
Mike,
Don’t get me started!!!
We’re grateful for you on several fronts. This topic being the most important because not all the nations of our world give a rat’s behind about the Constitution of The United States. We need to ask ourselves what changes might occur as we become part of the new world order.
So, we are grateful to you and everyone who is moving to create an awareness of those who would loot under the pretense of helping others, and accuse Americans of being ungrateful and uncaring. And position themselves to harvest huge profits from the manufactured deception of “Global Warming”. And go on to use deceptive research results about global warming to tell us that what they are doing is in our best interest and the best interest of those less fortunate peoples and countries.
I’ve been thinking hard on this very topic of late. Money isn’t the problem, riches aren’t the problem, BUT the condition of our heart is. We need to be givers, not grabbers, not greedy. We need to not hoard riches. It is designed to be used to help ourselves, families and those in need. I’ve had a shift in my life in the last day. I don’t need to live in the Great Depression Mentality any longer. I have an endless supply because God owns it all and He rewards those who work hard. I’m a giver, not a hoarder. This is my confession and I see myself free from the lie of lack. Laziness is a problem. We need to produce and give of ourselves and our goods to those who are truly in need, who can’t do for themselves. We do this WILLINGLY, not being coerced. It is given freely. These are the values that built this great nation and we are responsible to keep those values alive and carefully guard our hearts from lies. The truth written in this blog is so freeing and revolutionary that it will cause wealth and blessings to flow to us if we put it into practice-Money is to be made by our own sweat, not grabbed by those who don’t care to work. Our labor is worthy of pay. We don’t need to feel guilty about that.
That was a very inspiring article,makes you really think.
also it is true, “life is what you make it ”
Thank you
I was in High School (Chicago area) in the late ’70s. I had a U.S. Government teacher repremand me in front of a class room of my peers because I was working two jobs and going to school. He told me that I did not “deserve” to earn that much money. That was my first taste of Socialism and it left a rotten taste in my mouth. Jump forward 35 years and we now have a President, VP, House and Senate that believe as that teacher did! How low we have sunk!
I am building my own business as we speak and I am scared! I am scared that the fruits of my labor will be given to the lazy SOB’s who have been sitting back waiting for handouts. I am scared that a STUPID government official, whom no one voted for, will tell me how to run my business!
I have been told that I should go after some “Obama Money” to get my business off the ground faster. I refuse. There is a very good book that tells of what happens to those who sell their soul for 30 pieces of silver. God bless those who still believe in hard work and want this country to survive.
PS: I have made it onto Homeland Securities Watch List by speaking these words in public (TEA Party organizer)- but my voice WILL NOT be silenced!
God Bless America!
I couldn’t agree with you more Mike. I will tweet and forward this email over through my list. This will be of great help for my students. I also want to say thanks for your calls, webinars & for Magnetic Sponsoring. Happy holidays to you & your family Mike.
Hi Mike: I’m reading Ayn Rand’s book “Atlas Shrugged” now, too.
How poignant are her themes. She nails human nature brilliantly.
Thanks for sharing this wisdom. We all need to be reminded about what made America great. We can do it AGAIN.
Blessings,
Pat Gage
Hi Mike,
I’d like to comment on the quote itself. The Bible never stated that money is the root of all evil, rather it states, “For the ‘LOVE’ of money is the root of all evil…”
That one word makes a huge difference in the quote!
The context surrounding this statement found at 1Timothy 6:9-12, makes it clear that those LOVING money will put it even before God, in the sense that much more quality time and effort will be expended in the pursuit of money, than in the pursuit of the things of God.
Clearly, money in and of itself is not the problem. Rather, it is our attitude towards money that may be colored and unbalanced.
OH! Mike, that was incredible! Thank you for sharing that profound piece of work. Here’s to all those who went before me to “pave” the way by HARD WORK!!
Jo Anne Morris
The article does certainly make the point that money itself is not the root of evil but day to day experiences on the internet certainly reinforce the fact that there are hundreds of scammers making money on the net. All seem to have a common theme namely offering hope to others to make money easily on the internet. Whether it is by selling get rich quick schemes to others through MLM or setting up worthless affiliate websites for thousands of dollars the poor victims are left disillusioned and several thousand dollars poorer with nothing of value except perhaps the knowledge of how to perpetrate the same scheme down the line. One needs to ask oneself the question: “What am I actually doing to get my money? Offering something tangible or offering something that requires me and others to cheat their fellow man to earn money?”
Hi Mike,
Very well put and I agree wholeheartedly with Rob, that it is the “LOVE” of money that is the root of all evil, not money itself which is just a means of exchange. The whole concept behind the mlm company I belong to is to educate people about money and economics and to encourage them to own physical gold medallions or small silver bars as something to fall back on, or for an inheritance for their children, when/if the whole financial system as it is, collapses. What it basically comes down to is our labour and using our God-given talents for the benefit of others,
God bless,
Shirley Mundt
Hi Michael,
You’re the man. I don’t care if we make another dime I’ll continue to follow you wherever you go… you just make so damn much sense and you’re the only bright light I’ve seen lately.
As Howard Cosell kept reminding Meredith and all the rest of us “tell it as it is”
Thanks and a very merry Xmas to you and your new bride
Cheers!!
Hi Mike,
“life is what you make it” Thankyou for sharing this was incredible. Yhank you for Magnetic Sponsing.
I wish you and your Wife all the very best for christmas & new year. I will be sharing this with my friends
Teresa Brown
I definitely echo Ayn Rand’s sentiments, and your comments as well, Mike (wouldn’t expect any superficial thinking from an Austinite). I believe it is critically important that we as entrepreneurs engage in our endeavors with the same pride and artistry in endeavor as an old world craftsman.
The greatest value we can collectively contribute is to resist the temptation to deliver less than we are capable, to take a short cut for an easy buck, and instead insist on restoring values to value. Money is a tool, and when rightly applied, can accomplish great good.
When giving back is a core purpose in business, not as a mere corporate public relations campaign, but as a cornerstone of contribution, not only will we entrepreneurs create a synergistic cascade of excellence, but research and history confirms we will improve our financial bottom line as well.
I read Atlas Shrugged twice in my 20′s a few years back & felt at that time this book need’s to be in the hands of everyone including our lawmakers. Over the year’s Ann’s story of prophecy is being fullfilled. I remember he stating that there would not be a day go by after you read this book that somewhere / somehow you read or watch an event that you’ll remember this book. I recommend this book to all.
Tom Rosell
Hi Mike,
Great article and very wise words. I first read Ayn Rand’s book back in the 70′s and was blown away by it. Nothing has changed my opinion of it since.
Should be required reading for the do gooders and parasites of this world, of which there are many, and the legislators!
Here is to being proud of creating wealth fron your own toil and expertise.
All the best Mike
Greg
Mike – Thank you for expressing your angst in such a smart and elegant way! As usual you are providing value while making your point.- Bravo
Peace John
EXCELLENT.
100% TRUE.
People that believe the Bible is against money are wrong.
ECCLESIASTES 7:12 says..” For wisdom is for a protection, the same as money is for a protection, but the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom itself preserves alive its owners”
As we just read bible makes a parallel between Wisdom and Money.
Both are necessary for us to be happy.
On other token…this explain why someone on a salary is extremely hard to get wealthy. Only production of goods and services and ideas produce real wealth.
Be well,
I’ve always liked that book, I’ve read it many, many times. I am simply amazed at how long ago Rand painted the picture of the greed that threatens the United States today. I hope that we “Reardens” are strong enough to bring back a society where money represents all the good that she described.
‘The lovers of money are willing to work for it. They know they are able to deserve it.’
A Powerful Long Piece Of highly educated piece of material, thanks you Mike for sharing this and your wisdom to me and the world,
p.s those that have not read Magnetic Sponsoring, Go BUY it NOW!
Shaqir Hussyin =)
I have high hopes that we will survive this low time in our country. There are many of us who know that Freedom is being able to earn,spend and give what this society gave us the ability to do. A slothful person gets their own reward, at least that’s the book I adhere to. The love of money gets us in trouble but making money and using it wisely has always been blessed. God help us to organize and “stand in the gap” for our freedom. Thank you Mike for your courage. Congrats on your marriage also!!
Good stuff to read Dude! I was wondering where your mails at lately, and found this thoughtful piece of wealth and riches which some has percieve it as the deadliest thing on earth.
Oh what an insight! Keep the it flowing cos I know some folks need to get this dose in their nerves to survive here on earth so a little peace can reign.
Queen B.
wow, that was great food for my brains.
Hey Mike,,, I really apperciated your comments about money being the root of all evil. To take it a step further, its the LOVE of money that is the root of all evil. Its not the money itself its what it does to an individual that makes the significant change in the priorities we set after obtaining that money. If a person can keep their prospectives in order and realize that much money means being able to do much good. I really feel that most of the population really spends most of their live in obtaining these riches or money. Only to fall short or ruin their lives by hurting the ones they truly love or care about. Interesting dialogue though, one that has proven to be true over the test of time. Great subject and great points made. Realize that where much is given much is expected in return. Appreciate the opportunity to respons. Thanks, Extreme.
Hey Mike, cool content bro, you are definitely an expert in your field. You also seem to have some bible knowledge too, are you a Christian?
btw, I know being “pc” is important to you so if you want, you can reply to my email
blessings brother!
Chris Vercelli
Great article Mike. Money certainly is not evil, it is neutral. The More you make, the more good you can do.
However, the scripture does not say that money is evil. It says; “For the love of money is the root of all evil”.
1 Tim. 6:10, talking about GREED.
Phyllis
Money..for the one who have,,it is nothing,,can buy everything,,for the one who do not have it..it is everything..like me for example..i am far from home 20 years,,my mother died last month..my brother the only one few ywaers back..i could not go to their funeral because i do not have money..even now i dont have even to pay the studies of my children..4..my husband without job..i have no house ..just hope…so tell me what can i think about money? i do wish to have it and plenty//for me money is everything because i have non..money is not devil thing if you know how to use it and share it..create job..etc..
I don’t really have anything inspiring or fancy to say, but I do want to say that I will pass this message on.
Because this is something I’ve studied myself and I understand its grave importance, especially for the future of our country.
If we don’t speak up and stand up for the truth, then we will eventually become captive to a society with a government that controls our lives.
We should fight for our freedom because it’s at stake. Mike’s right. We are the life-blood.
So pass the word on too.
AMEN, thank you Mike for posting it. Time is up and “we need to wake up fast or our children will have no country to wake up in”.
Thanks Mike,
I read most of your thoughts, skimmed some. I think we are very confused,…It is written, “the LOVE of money is the ROOT of evil.” So,…it’s the motive of man that we come back to.
I’m working hard to earn some college funds for my two adopted children,…and that’s what I’m supposed to do – work hard (and smart) for my families provision. Now, and for the future. Six days you MUST work… if you don’t work, you don’t eat – a couple of other ancient writings/nuggets.
Thank you for your position.
Mark Ostrye
Retired F-5 Pilot
Thanks Mike, loved it, esp. since I’ve never read Ayn Rand. Always heard good things about Atlas Shrugged.
I did NOT like your inclusion of the pic of Bernanke and Paulson. (and the slam-the-bankers cartoon). They SEEM to be used, (MY assumption) in this context, as symbols of greed and sloth–and yet, what little I know of them, they are highly educated Wealthy men, who were thrust into a situation,– perhaps enabled by their actions?–or not–, that they now had to fix. (The mtg banking downfalls are at least partly the fault of Congress people urging mtg banks to give ANYONE 100% financing, etc. etc…., so you could have included some US Reps pics, too!). ARE Bernanke & Paulson greedy fools as the stereotypes proclaim? Why not show a pic of the poverty people who ARE NOT producing anything? –again, a stereotype. Perhaps you used them as symbols of the creators of wealth–but public stereotypes being what they are, I assumed the negative, not the positive, with your inclusion of their photo.
Other than that–Great piece. Thanks for using it in your commentary.
I DID love the pic of Steve Jobs–now HE’s a creator of wealth–and cool gadgets! You too, but you’re not yet “quite” as well known as Jobs. lol
thank the many millionaires for not sharing their wealth for the needy people like us. you’re absolutely great mike. what a great eye opener. may god continually blessed you as you eventually share your blessings to the needy. Mabuhay!
What a distorted view of the world and what it could be. Yet, the rich are greedy, and the poor covet what they have. It was not written that “money is the root of all evil”, but rather that “the love of money is the root of all evil”.
People and love and honor are important. Raising families and and teaching them correct values are important, not your bank balance. A corollary to the Golden Rule is that we all need to love people and use money. Too many in our society get that absolutely backwards.
Money is simply a tool the pay the room and board in this life, while we focus on the things that matter. Instead, for many, it has become their primary focus.
These difficult economic times the World find itself in are a product of one human character flaw that has become universal GREED!
Greed in the CEO that thinks he deserves to earn a thousand times the average worker in his company. Greed in the worker that has become less productive, yet believes he deserves ever increasing wages and benefits and ever decreasing taxes. Greed in the non-workers in society that believe the World should reward there lack of industry.
I have been blessed in this World with abundance, but I do not let it define me. Money is a tool, not a quest.
Money is Energy!
We can attract positive energy or negative energy therefore our thoughts and what we attract should be the focus of our day- not how much money we have or don’t have!
As an up-and-coming- SUCCESSFUL entreprenuer, to me, this is a possitive confirmation that the ones like us are deserving of whatever wealth and riches we will magnetize to us according to what we put into our effords and what we honestly learn well far as our skills to contribute to this society. Only haters have ever shuned the concept of abundant monetary resorces and the ones who has ever achieved it. I have been saying for many of my years to those that I hear complain about being so broke, or “what a shame the rich get richer poor gets poorer”, that one should’nt hate the players, just learn how to PLAY THE GAME the way of the winners, and the loosers/broke complainers will begin to WIN BIG just like the RICH/WEALTHY! Money is a tool, makes the world go around! To me it is not everything, however, money and abundance of it, means A WHOOOOLE LOT! Just as the story implies, those of us who are good-hearted and spirited people with abundant riches WILL do good with it to help others, those of us that are contrary to this rule, with abundance of riches, won’t have it for long, it’s just like KARMA, if they have it coming to them, it will be upon them soon.I love even more, the positive results I can make for others by purchasing the means to that positive change and differece. Everything in our society cost money, that’s just the way it is. Even the lowest guttered homeless are being kept alive by…… Money! even though none of their own.
Mike, been about 40 years since I read Atlas Shrugged but I agreed with the book and I agree with the statement you quoted.
I had many thoughts as I read it, remembered and valued many of the lines from it, but also found myself disagreeing with parts of it. A person can dream, work hard, produce things of value, yet the fat cats and looters can take and either profit from or destroy the efforts of the worker, thus keeping him/her from fulfilling dreams and accumulating the money so necessary for life. Only by this means can money become evil, by devaluing the producer of it through manipulation and theft by evildoers.
I can remember as a child when our country went off the gold standard (yep, I’m really that old) so that now the Treasury can keep printing bills day and night that have no meaning, no worth, and are a laughing stock to the international world of finance.
Neither you nor I wish to get into a long discussion about the discrepancies in our beliefs, but THANKS FOR POSTING THIS.
Bev
Ann Rand certainly writes a great novel and it was good to be reminded of the value of money. We are indeed the workers who produce, and live the free enterprise ideal.
Good work to all you net-workers, keep the faith bright.
This was certainly a good story about money, and its meanings and value. I was struck by the point of those who consider money as evil, and running away from these people. Plus, the point about those people who feel guilty because they are rich.
This is interesting and makes a person think. It brings to mind the notion of a certain person having a better chance of going through an ‘eye of a needle’ as opposed to getting to a certain good place. There seems to be a lot of unresolved guilt in the world about becoming wealthy, and looters and moochers take advantage of this guilt.
Great article, need to send to Rush and Hannity, and maybe it would get out to a lot more people to read. Thanks again!
Mike, been about 40 years since I read Atlas Shrugged but I agreed with the book and I agree with much of the statement you quoted.
I had many thoughts as I read it, remembered and valued many lines, but also found myself disagreeing with parts. A person can dream, work hard, produce value, fulfill family and social responsibilities. But the fat cats, moochers and looters can take and profit from or destroy the individual’s efforts, thus keeping him/her from fulfilling dreams and accumulating money necessary for life. Only by this means can money become evil, by devaluing the producer through manipulation and evil. Therein lies the sad truth of America today.
I can remember as a child when our country went off the gold standard (yep, I’m really that old) so that now the Treasury can keep printing bills day and night that have no meaning, no worth, and are a laughing stock to the international world of finance.
Neither you nor I wish to get into a long discussion about the discrepancies in our beliefs, but THANKS FOR POSTING THIS.
Wisdom is often unrecognized by the fool, and unfortunately all too many these days, are graduates of “The Public Fool System” It’s been a serious battle at times in my own life, to get past the effects that system had on me.
I think it quite fitting that the bright yellow fool buses perfectly match the color chosen to indicate “CAUTION” throughout most of life. That is… ASIDE from the part about “High Visibility” for avoiding collision.
Certain select aspects of history particularly, going back several hundred years, are and have been ignored or down played, or even demonized to a point that is truly frightening. Especially when considered alongside the ancient wisdom which makes quit clear; “Those who fail to learn from history ARE doomed to repeat it”.
I truly find it quite interesting that the vast majority of church goers I’ve had conversations with over many years, had never really heard any teaching at all on the ECONOMIC BONDAGE that Moses delivered the Israelites from, under the pharaoh of Egypt. The “history” we’ve all seen growing up has always depicted the era as one of physical bondage.
GuardS with spear, whips, ball and chain, etc.. Slavery though, as we all know, was done away with once and for all by our infamous “American Civil War” ….RIGHT !
Besides, once “Freed” and able to work real jobs, they could all be taxed too. Just like women once they were “Freed” by the “lib movement”.
I’ve found VERY few people who have even heard of the term or concept of “economic bondage”. Yet the true history of the world has numerous examples. I just find it quite odd that the real truth and long history of this topic has obviously been quite obscured. WHY ? PLEASE ….answer me that !
I wonder if it’s purely coincidental that 85% or more or all
“Churchs” or “Religious Organizations” operate as a
“501c3 Not For Profit CORPORATION” ? ? ? A “tax exempt status” granted to them by Uncle Ceasar…or Sam, or whoever, upon successful “Application” (read: Request for permission) for such privileges.
I guess if the churches say or do anything that makes our beloved “Uncle” to grumpy, they could suddenly loose half their congregation for lack of ability to any longer offer the all important “tax deduction” (read: one less lash of the whip)on tithes, to the sheeple of their flocks. Is this why we’re not widely taught this history here any more either ?
I personaly find it NO surprise that “Uncle” is in a position of substantial monetary power with two of our traditionally largest channels of history. It’s even sadder that he gets all that money he uses for control, from those he ultimately controls.
Even the ancient pharaoh of Egypt can be quoted as saying to his counsel: “come, let us deal wisely with them, for they are far greater in number than us”.
{FROM THE EXCERPT ABOVE}
“when you see that in order to produce, you need to obtain permission from men who produce nothing – when you see that money is flowing to those who deal, not in goods, but in favors – when you see that men get richer by graft and by pull than by work, and your laws don’t protect you against them, but protect them against you” –………
OH MY… I haven’t the FAINTEST what he speaketh of….do you ?
Well on a lighter note -….say…….isn’t Family Guy on ? or some re-runs of Married with Children, or a good NFL game on one of those sports channels….no no wait ! what about that new show where they throw terrorists to the lions ?
Merry Christmas everyone….don’t forget to properly dispose of your “holiday tree” !
“Money is made – before it can be looted or mooched – made by the effort of every honest man, each to the extent of his ability.”
Money in and of itself is NOT evil.
The love of money IS evil because anytime the END justifies the means and the cart moves ahead of the horse, nothing good can come from it.
Money makes it possible to turn dreams into reality and then supports our abilities through hard work to make those dreams flourish. The risk-takers take all the chances in the hope that it will all someday pay off for a better life. Money becomes the tangible result of our labors and dreams fulfilled with financial success. It’s all about winning and money becomes the prize of a job well done.
By the way, it was actually written – “The love of money is the root of all kinds of evil” Not ALL evil ! I think ALL would agree that rape is evil, yet what has it to do with money ?
Never more true words have I seen written (outside of scripture). There are dark days ahead for those that do not learn from the mistakes of the past. For those who are educated in the ways of money, they will be the victors because they used it for good rather than take advantage of another person. Thanks for your leadership Mike and God bless all this season.
Atlas Shrugged is a book I pulled off my parents’ bookshelf and read for the first time when I was 18. I have read it twice since then. No other book as shaped my perception as much. It is quite interesting that, after many years, that I have been hearing so many references to it in the last six months.
I agree, but also believe in helping people get started.
At some point, people have created enough value themselves, that they can consume more things that help them to produce more.
I believe that it is possible to help people get started on this path with knowledge… something that can not be taken from someone, only spread.
I admit. When it comes down to it, this article is dead on.
Get things done, and reap the rewards.
Well let the truth be told even if it`s not what we want to hear.
Make MONEY work 4 you or it will rule you…
GREAT article Mike KEEP it comming.
May you all have a BLESSED CHRISTMAS>
Cheers
Andre
Very profound article…Money is the great magnifier of who and what we are…a stingy heart with money is even the more stinger…a giving heart with money seeks only to be more giving. Money is just paper and ink, The condition of the heart make’s other than what it is.
Great job Mike.
Great stuff! Sounds like somebody has been listening to Alex Jones over at infowars.com. People thought he was crazy for the last 10 years, but everything he’s been saying has turned out to be true!
Great post! Bravo!
I HIGHLY recommend the videos “Fall of the Republic” and “The Obama Deception” to anybody wanting to learn more!
One day we will meet in person Mike. A person who reads and truly understands Ayn Rand is person I’d be honored to sit down with and have a real conversation. Again, you demonstrate the depth of your convictions and the level of your intelligence. And I, as a fellow entrepreneur, am proud to be associated with you.
Happy Holidays Mike!
Peace and Abundance,
Deborah Tutnauer
“The English journalist G. K. Chesterton said …
“… too much capitalism doesn’t mean too many capitalists, but too few capitalists”.
“Unregulated capitalism and state socialism are twin blunders, capitalism because it concentrates wealth in the hands of the few thereby undermining democracy, and socialism because it concentrates power in the hands of a class of state officials who proceed to appropriate the lion’s share of the meagre output of a socialist economy for themselves” ….and enjoy luxurious ‘dachas’ on the black sea.
“Of the two systems capitalism is infinitely preferable, firstly because the chief safeguard of personal freedom in a democratic society is the anarchy and disorder of capitalist individualism, and secondly because capitalism produces so much more wealth”.
Nevertheless, the great and growing economic inequality in the world today, both within nations and among nations, should be seen as a very dangerous ongoing crisis.
“But we must be very careful to avoid the blunder of blaming the rich instead of the true culprit—human nature.”
( I would use the word GREED … rather than human nature because this trait is not prevalent in primitive societies like the Bushman for example)
“We have no reason to suppose, if rich and poor could trade places, that the poor would behave any better. They might well behave worse, as commonly happens when the exploited suddenly find themselves in a position to exploit.”
(Our rainbow nation … South Africa … can reasonably BEE regarded as an excellent example!!!!)
“No, the rich take full advantage of the fact that our economy and tax system are organized and managed to their advantage—most of them don’t lose a moment’s sleep over it either—because that’s a very human thing to do. It was ever thus, and it’s a sign of maturity not to be scandalized by it”.
(Actually I would add that the educational system has been developed thru time to supply a populous of docile workers kept in servitude thru debt. This system suits ‘big business’ as it does government. The former as a source of cheap labour and the latter as a source of PAYE tax which is so easy to collect. As someone observed: ‘most people live lives of quiet desperation’)
‘Capitalism’ is based on the principle of competition. People must work hard in order to succeed. But many people, through no fault of their own, are ill-equipped to live in such a competitive world. If we think it wrong to discriminate on the basis of race, creed or colour, why do we tolerate economic discrimination on the basis of energy, academic aptitude, or the motivating desire for wealth? It’s up to the victims of our economy, and their sympathizers in the middle class, to point to the obvious injustice in much of modern economic practice as well as to the historic change underway in the nature of work’.
Though it may be delayed, the day is coming when our society will agree with John Kenneth Galbraith” …..
‘Everybody should be guaranteed a decent basic income. A rich country…can well afford to keep everybody out of poverty.’
Let those who are prepared to TAKE THE ACTION REQUIRED to attain wealth be free to reach for the stars.
Mike, hopefully your article will stimulate a return to all of Ayn Rand’s contributions to our enlightenment.
May I close with another quote from the Bible:
“A feast is made for laughter, and wine maketh merry: But MONEY answereth all things”. Ecclesiastes 10.19
Mike,
Good to see the rare genuine effort to examine meaningful things.
After 72 years, my conclusion is that Humanity needs to move more away from mere thinking into Awareness. About all it takes is a few minutes of quality solitude, whereby people can grasp the limitless universe that we dwell in, letting in a little of the Creative empowerment that might be derived there. If enough of us would do that, while turning off the CNN stuff,harmonious intelligence would freshen everything up.
Blessings upon You, Yours and Your Work
Thanks,
Norm A.
Great extract.The problem applies not only to America, but wherever humans exist on planet earth.To me the love 4 money is the root of all evil in many ways – people who work hard for money but at the UNJUST expense of others ; on the other end people who want money but are just plain lazy to even bother to think.They take the ‘easy option’- benefits;and those who like you said take it by force.I believe in hard honest work for money.God gives us the power to create wealth the bible says.Some work with their hands,some with their heads.How we want to accomplish this is personal.
Brilliantly thought out Mike. Innovative use of thought and intent around the advent and use of that item around which the whole world seems to revolve. But I wonder how many readers perceive the words “love”, “evil”, “root” and “money” correctly, in the context that they should be perceived and understood!!?
I applaud you for this article. Your deep thinking on this issue and how it affects society brings to mind that there are many proverbs on record on the use and abuse of money on individuals and society. All of them however, have one thing in common; both both “good” as well as the “evil” outcomes of the desire, acquizition and use of money are born in the soul of man and the current state of our society is a reflection of these outcomes.
You are indeed true in your view that the money is destroying our world as it does not follow the ethical values lying behind. Even if they know, then willingly forget and feign as if they are not aware of it.
The more world goes advance in terms of modernity, it equally lags far behind in terms of morality. This is what the Western culture has given it to the world.
Fantastic content as usual Mr. Dillard……
This article made me think immediately of people who approach me on the street as I try to make my way through the city. I have often felt torn as to whether I am responsible and morally obligated to help them in some way as I am monetarily better off than them at this time however as this article points out – we all have the same abilities to reach the same place in life if we will utilize the very basic capacity we have to reason and create.
—Money rests on the axiom that every man is the owner of his mind and his effort. —
Any wealth I own I have aquired,not with a magic wand, but with my ingenuity and desire/passion which is inherent (though not engaged or nurtured) in any human being.
—–Money is not the tool of the moochers, who claim your product by tears, or of the looters, who take it from you by force. Money is made possible only by the men who produce…—
This article also makes me think that I am far better to offer one of these beggars an opportunity to work and make their own money than to simply place a coin in their hands – “If you give a man a fish he will eat for a day, teach him to fish and he will eat for a lifetime”. If the person refuses the opportunity to work and make money everyday for the rest of their life in preference to an ill-gotten pittance then there is no reason I should feel guilt for their slothfulness.
Right on!
It seems the more I read from truly wealthy people like Mike Dillard and countless others the more I raise my standard of living with each paragraph.
I will try my very best, even if it kills me, to offer as much value to this world as I possibly can.
I’m currently creating a free report to give away to people and to my subscribers. This will be the first in the giant chain reaction I envision for myself in changing the world and becoming truly affluent.
Thank you Mike, for sharing this.
Dario Montes de Oca
Not only is it time to recognize the truth of these words, but it is time for every citizen who believes and understands to let their voice be heard. We must take a stand and declare that we will no longer tolerate the looters. Or, we will soon find that we can no longer stand because we have been crippled by these same looters.
Bravo, Mike. The truth of your words will sting those who say that very thing. For those of us who understand your statements, we acknowledge our future, as well as this country.
Congratulations on your marriage. May your future togeher be a blessing to both of you.
Sheila of Oregon
Mike,
The most worrisome part is that in our last election, a man who in the real world amounts to zero, was elected by the very people described here,,,, the looters,,, so that they could take for themselves and for their counterparts,,, and not only that,,, the whole world cheered for him,,, I wonder why
It’s nice to see a whole new generation being inspired by Ayn Rand’s books. “Atlas Shrugged” and “The Fountainhead” inspired me when I first delved into them over 35 years ago now.
Highly recommended reading and fuel for much thought.
Lou Abbott
Founder
http://www.MLM-theWholeTruth.com
…for people who want to know the whole truth about the M.L.M industry
Mike,
I read Atlas Shrugged probably 40 years ago. I never thought I would see the day when I would be so concerned that what was written may come to pass.
I’m 77 and I have never been as worried as I am now, with a great concern for my grand children.
Thanks for sharing this info
Roy Butler
Temple Texas
512 234 5273
Wonderful to hear truth told by men with the courage to tell it.
Happy Holidays and many blessings to you and all your loved ones.
Sam Haschke
Well Mike
i can agree with you to some extent but than again what about who print s the money we use, who gets the interest s on the emison of money…as i see it until someone ( FEDand all the central banks of the world ) are expecting something for nothing there will always be so called “loosers”
Well said Mike.
Unfortunately money has become the measure by which we value a person. When we learn the true value is measured in the soul we have matured!
Happy first Christmas to you and your wife.
Adam
That is an incredible book that most people will never take the time to read. I bet most people won’t even bother to read your post – it is so long after all!
For those that take the time to read it once and then go back to it again start to really understand what is going on now in the world and it is not pretty.
Thanks for sharing Mike.
I agree in part with the article, money is not the root of all evil but the vehicle some people choose to use to oppress others. As stated in the article money can not heal or change the condition of anybodies heart, mind or soul. It is the inclination of mens nature that causes them to do what they do of good or evil. Unfortunately in this society we have started to believe that it is the attainment of materialism that will make us happier, healthier and more lovable. We look outside ourselves to find that which is already with in, and when we locate that we are rich indeed. Does having more than the next man mean I should look at him through the eyes of disgust and think that I am better than him? No one of us has attained anything in this life without the help and assistance of someone, because I received that help does that mean I am a moocher. I was able to go to University as a result of Federal Aid and Pell Grants, I worked my butt off because of that reason; I wanted no one to be able to say I wasted someones help. If we are truly to have and abundance mentality than my helping or giving something away is just a rain drop in a bucket compared to what the vastness of the universe has produced. I appreciate all the work you have done in helping me become a “Better Networker.”
Money, is not the root of all evil. It is the same as saying that a weapon is deadly and can hurt others. The reality is that people are the ones who can make the right or wrong calls. Money is here for the use and pleasure of those who have it. As for me I would like to say that we should all have it to take care of our needs and provide for our love ones.
I never thought when I read Atlas Shrugged almost 40 years ago in my high school years that it would be so prophetic. I believe the most telling passage is this:
“Money is the barometer of a society’s virtue. When you see that trading is done, not by consent, but by compulsion – when you see that in order to produce, you need to obtain permission from men who produce nothing – when you see that money is flowing to those who deal, not in goods, but in favors – when you see that men get richer by graft and by pull than by work, and your laws don’t protect you against them, but protect them against you – when you see corruption being rewarded and honesty becoming a self-sacrifice – you may know that your society is doomed.”
The above passage is a dead-on description of our current society. As a county (USA), I believe we are “doomed”. I believe we have gone too far down the path of the looters (big government) and moochers (entitlement/welfare programs) to recover. At least not without a revolutionary upheaval. The looters and moochers far outnumber the capitalist who actually create value.
It is indeed sad to see how far we have fallen in such a short time.
Thanks, Mike.
Great post Mike,
People should understand that it is the “love of money”, not money, that is the root of all evil. As you say, money is merely a tool and is neither inherently good nor bad.
May you always be justly rewarded for the value you provide!
Alan
First I’d like to say thanks to Mike for being so brave to step into the din with the loins! It is true that greed has taken over. And my email reflect the greed and selfishness of that evil. those of you who speck of benefit of education, hard work you say, don’t for get about the blood of those on the battlefields of time.You all are in denial of what money is all about. a promise note to be paid in kind. you are the ones who say you didn’t have anything to do with slavery, that happen under the spirit of USA Constitution. this is the cancer that eats away at our country. The world is still watching! Yes! Mike the poor are made greater throw the champions like you who take up there cause.
I agree with the article and your opinion, HOWEVER its fraught with errors which must be addressed. first, the minor one; Social Security is NOT an entitlement its an annuity. It is a fund just like an investment that if you’ve WORKED all your life you’ve paid into. I paid into 43 years. I want what I’ve PAID for. Secondly an most importantly as pointed out in the article the acurate phrase is the LOVE of money(not money itself) is the root of all evil. In the original Greek texts the word love is the word agapeo. It means unconditional love. The context is idolatry……you argue with God…I won’t
Good morning Mike,
Didn’t read all the article, BUT, what I read is right on. The truth hurts, and people dont want the truth. I know money is not evil, but as the Bible says” The love of money is the root of all evil.” This I do believe, See all the corruption around us.
Those that want you to give them something, have the slave mentality, Give Me Let Me Have. Thank you for this article, I am printing it, so it will be a reminder to me. Have a great Christmas, Shalom
Money is NOT the root of all evil. The apostle Paul stated that the “LOVE” of money is the root of all KINDS of evil. Some of the most godly people in the Bible were extremely wealthy, such as Abraham, Jacob, David and King Solomon, whose net worth was approx 25 TRILLION dollars.
The LOVE of money causes people to be greedy and dishonest at times. Money is neutral however. Even poor people can LOVE money and become dishonest.
If you are a hard worker, industrious, and honest, the Bible commends such attributes as these. I’d recommend that you read the book of Proverbs for God’s perspective on wealth and laziness. He doesn’t think hightly of laziness or poverty, but doesn’t think highly of dishonesty and greed either. Be honest, have high morals and accumulate wealth so that you can serve others. He likes that attitude!
I read Atlas Shrugged when I was 19 years of age and now after this article will reread it at my present age of 53 years young.
At 19 I was like many, very confused,very naive ,thought I knew it all (knew nothing) and for farther confusion entrenched inside a union mentality family since my Father ,5 of his siblings ,3 of Mom’s siblings where G.M. workers. Later my younger Brother who retired this year at 50…and my best freind worked there.
That’s not bad or good just a fact.
My confusion came from the fact I did not know I was a dreamer until the age of 36. My life changed Nov. 1992 at my 1st Amway meeting. You know Nicholas it’s better to make 1% of 100 folks efforts than using 100% of your own.
What? Really ? How?
That night I went home with one cassett, Purpose of a Leader by then Triple Diamond Tim Foley.
I Finsihed that in my car ,got home, called my Brother living 1 hour away and picked up 20 more cassetts that night stayed up and went straight to work. I finished all 20 cassetts in 3 days.
Doesn’t matter what folks thought or think of Amway,they had the best training system and I became a producer and much better individual because of it .My union family did not want me around because they said to me “Money is the root of all evil Nicholas !” and of course I was “ingnorance on fire” being young in my journey and with a blunt confrontational attitude which I now control we had many arguments about money.
Long story short that night brought me to find Mike and his info Nov. 07 which was as powerful as my first Amway meeting.
Why ? ..well I was now thinking right like Francisco d’ Anconia.
So to me page 410 of Atlas Shrugged is the best answer to “money is the root of all evil” that I’ve come across so I’ll be sharing this much.
This paragragh here is exactly what we see happening in America with your new socialists in charge and it concerns me much even as a Canadian.
“Money is the barometer of a society’s virtue. When you see that trading is done, not by consent, but by compulsion – when you see that in order to produce, you need to obtain permission from men who produce nothing – when you see that money is flowing to those who deal, not in goods, but in favors – when you see that men get richer by graft and by pull than by work, and your laws don’t protect you against them, but protect them against you – when you see corruption being rewarded and honesty becoming a self-sacrifice – you may know that your society is doomed.”
Hey we have far too much of this in Canada also.Way too much government that allows generational welfare and taxing the producers to to food banks at times.
THANKS MIKE FOR USING YOUR STATURE AS A PODIUM!
God this is so important having voices of folks like you and your team in this fight because that’s what this is.
I have and am reinventing myself at 53 ,I work full time at home after a very tough 5+ years.I’m proud of that since my family and friends no longer questions me because I “stayed with it”.
I blog about this stuff daily almost and get tomatoes often but I’m ready to get the pitch forks out if need be.
We’er talking about our Children’s freedom here folks so get in this game.
Good morning Mike,
Great article, Thank you
Those that want you to give them something, have the slave mentality, Give Me Let Me Have. I am printing it, it will be a reminder to me. Have a great Christmas, Shalom
Ayn Rand. How happy I’d be if more people put their “stuff” down and picked up an “Old School” book like Atlas Shrugged and “Fountainhead” and read it… and reflected on it’s lessons…
BEFORE thinking they have all the answers.
Life is simple with a bit of real knowledge and not “static” or “pop culture noise”…
Thanks Mike.
Franco
The love of money is not the root of all evil in all it’s meaning. I love money because it’s the fruit of my labor,
Which in turn is the means of acquiring our basic necessities.
Here’s my two-cents. The actual quote that is being referred to here is, “For the love of money is the root of all evil…” It is directly from – believe it or not – the Bible (King James Version – 1 Timothy 6:10). I believe, from a spiritual perspective, this means that God is not opposed to us having money, but He is definitely opposed to money having us! And from a purely secular perspective, this means that money in and of itself is neutral – it is merely a medium of exchange. What really matters is what’s in a man’s heart (or spirit) – that is the real issue. I think another pertinent point that’s being made here is also from the Bible (King James Version – 1 Timothy 5:18), “…The labourer is worthy of his reward.” These scriptures have had a profound affect on my personal world-view.
In my opinion, every member of congress must be voted out over the next six years and all newly elected ones should be given Altas Shrugged as a welcoming gift! I, like many, feel that it may require a revolution to save this country from the progressives and the wanna be dictator. I worry about the country that my 11 month old grandson will inherit.
Thank you Mike for pointing out this book. It is now on my list of must reads.
I wish you and your wife many happy years together!
I thought this was very inciteful this is something that I think most teen’s should be expose to because they are the future of the world and this is a global problem. Most people know the cost of everything and the value of nothing. I have been attracted to MLM opportunities for the last 20 years and I keep saying I wont do it again but I keep comming back. this has been very empowering in helping me define my reason for building my own business and a purpose to keep going I would like to add that in no way do I support any particular political effort but I would like for all honest heart people to be able to enjoy life now and in the future.
A online network marketer is a person who asks ‘Why?’ of the universe and lets nothing stand between the answer and his mind.
J.G.
I wholeheartedly agree. The looters are just lazy. Right now I work a job. I am thankful for my job but I KNOW that I can and will make a better life for myself. I am involved with a business so that I can quit my job and be prosperous as I should be. In these United States we all should be able to make our lives better.
Maybe at some point one or more of us had to have a government handout but you SHOULD aspire to BETTER yourself and get out from under that!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Look at all the rags to riches stories in our world. They made it!!!!! They are rich or are living comfortably!!! Mr. Dillard I am NOT mad at you for your well deserved wealth!!! I am educating myself to get there too!!!!
I work now but I hate my job but you do what you have to until you ACHIEVE your goal!!!!!!!!!!!!!
To just be average ho hum employees to me is for the birds!!! I know my life is much more than making just enough to survive. I am and so is anyone who wishes it and puts in the work supposed to be rich, prosperous and able to give back in money, time and knowledge to those who desire it. I want to be able to give to some charity or church $1 Million dollars and not flinch!!!! But how can you help others if you don’t have a pot to p**s in???
No, money is not evil!!!!!!!!!!!
There are evil people in this world who are rich and poor. It is what you do with your wealth and success in your life that counts!!!!!
Your article Mr. Mike Dillard is awesome. You (as always) lay down the truth with no nonsense. Merry Christmas to you and have a happy New Year with your wife.
We all deserve to live better, happier lives. Let us pursue knowledge and advice from those who are there NOW!!!!!
Take care.
Sincerely,
Terrance
Standing near a river fork where native American gathered for feasts and trade I thought this is what business is: A gathering of poeple that bring fruit of their work to trade with others.
It took a while to get the titled idea straight in my mind for loot and mooch reasons. This idea still remains when I see people in need and people fragilized to give. I mean every one should have a feast, everyone should give, instead of take by force or by mooch.
In my country because of laws it is difficult to make cookies at home and sell them for a profit. I mean that everyone should have something to share, if legislators accept to let them share it and not force or restrict revenue from people own decent work.
Final line: When money ceases to be the tool by which men deal with one another, then men become the tools of men.
One hope “tools” would mean “be useful” and not “using” of people such as natives at a river fork enriched each others for “Money is the root of all good”
Happy Holidays to you Mike, your family your team and to all reading this. 10-9-8-… 2010
“Money is made – before it can be looted or mooched – made by the effort of every honest man, each to the extent of his ability.”
Money in and of itself is NOT evil.
The love of money IS evil because anytime the END justifies the means and the cart moves ahead of the horse, nothing good can come from it.
Money makes it possible to turn dreams into reality and sustains our abilities through hard work to make those dreams flourish. The risk-takers take all the chances in the hope that it will all someday pay off for a better life. Money becomes the tangible result of our labors and dreams fulfilled with financial success. It’s all about winning and money becomes the prize of a job well done.
I find that most people who disagree win Ayn Rand have never read her works. The same people complaining about money and evil have never experienced the joy of true self achievement (including meeting a payroll) Look at the current administration running America only 8% of them have held a job in the private sector! That should terrify every entrepreneur in this country. All we can can do is try to educate the ignorant one lost soul at a time.(and vote in 2010) Great article Mike, stay strong.
To feed the beggar in exchange for work.
Would man profit more to feed the beggar after his work? For the value of the food would be justified by the beggar, for having fed him without expectation would allow us true freedom. When we seek not the expectation of our offer we are rewarded more than the offer itself.
As the wisest of men said it is far greater to build your brother up than tear him down. For on the backs of labor rides a true evil. So the man should gain the world and lose his soul. What should it profit a man to have all and nothing, gauge not your wealth on possessions but on the profit you offer to you fellow man.
Those that need a hand in deed should offer a hand. A hand that gives receives. Truly a man that seeks to improve his life will improve that of the world he lives in. The man that has selfish desires shall consume his own self. Freedom is not for the weak, it is for the man that struggles to be better tomorrow than he was today. That is the man who will build an empire by pushing forward and leading those like minded people to greater endeavors. In the spirit of the season giving is the reason, that we will better ourselves in heart and spirit.
Do not judge for you to will be judged. Wealth is far greater than the trinkets we possess. Wealth is bestowed on the meek and humble. Do not beg for morsels but seek to do right and so shall you be rewarded. The lazy will not benefit from the harvest. A man of pride will not beg, but he will offer up something of his own hands in exchange for that which he seeks. Hope is the renewal that we will be better for what we give. We are not owed anything which we do not earn. Those that ask should give first, they should look within and find their true self. For whom much is given much is expected. Their should be no excuse for lack of pride. Today is the day right this very moment that we can go forward and create the wealth which we desire not by asking for but asking what can be done. We need not set by the roadside, but rise to our feet and journey forward at all cost.
The evil in the money is not that you do not have it, but that you will not do what it takes to earn it. Change your heart towards that of giving, without expectation and soon your journey will turn into a glorious road.
As we know freedom is not free but the payment of those before us this day. That within the dreams of those brave we would be able to live our dreams. To continue in our children the steadfast belief that we can all do better. To not rely on others for their existence lest they become weak and irresponsible.
Hope, Pride,and Freedom are true words of a leader. So lead forward and let the weak of hope, weak of pride not be the reason for the loss of Freedom.
I found the article interesting; just one thing though money is not the root of all evil;The love of money is what the Bible says is the root of all evil. As you said money is a tool not a god. To be used for the benefit of all. We use to barted goods but its difficult to carry a cow in ones pocket, hence money came into being. Thank you for sharing. Though i am a little low on finaces right now I know I will get through. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Bravo!!! What great thoughts and the perfect quote to back it up. Keep up your great service to others Mike, it is greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Alan
Wow, who could argue with that logic? It’s not the money that is the root of all evil, it’s how we choose to use it.
Thanks for making me think tonight.
Ana Hoffman/YourNetBiz System
“The English journalist G. K. Chesterton said …
“… too much capitalism doesn’t mean too many capitalists, but too few capitalists”.
“Unregulated capitalism and state socialism are twin blunders, capitalism because it concentrates wealth in the hands of the few thereby undermining democracy, and socialism because it concentrates power in the hands of a class of state officials who proceed to appropriate the lion’s share of the meagre output of a socialist economy for themselves” ….and enjoy luxurious ‘dachas’ on the black sea.
“Of the two systems capitalism is infinitely preferable, firstly because the chief safeguard of personal freedom in a democratic society is the anarchy and disorder of capitalist individualism, and secondly because capitalism produces so much more wealth”.
Nevertheless, the great and growing economic inequality in the world today, both within nations and among nations, should be seen as a very dangerous ongoing crisis.
“But we must be very careful to avoid the blunder of blaming the rich instead of the true culprit—human nature.”
( I would use the word GREED … rather than human nature because this trait is not prevalent in primitive societies like the Bushman for example)
“We have no reason to suppose, if rich and poor could trade places, that the poor would behave any better. They might well behave worse, as commonly happens when the exploited suddenly find themselves in a position to exploit.”
(Our rainbow nation …South Afria’ …can reasonably BEE regarded as an excellent example!!!!)
“No, the rich take full advantage of the fact that our economy and tax system are organized and managed to their advantage—most of them don’t lose a moment’s sleep over it either—because that’s a very human thing to do. It was ever thus, and it’s a sign of maturity not to be scandalized by it”.
(Actually I would add that the educational system has been developed thru time to supply a populous of docile workers kept in servitude thru debt. This system suits ‘big business’ as it does government. The former as a source of cheap labour and the latter as a source of PAYE tax which is so easy to collect. As someone observed: ‘most people live lives of quiet desperation’)
‘Capitalism’ is based on the principle of competition. People must work hard in order to succeed. But many people, through no fault of their own, are ill-equipped to live in such a competitive world. If we think it wrong to discriminate on the basis of race, creed or colour, why do we tolerate economic discrimination on the basis of energy, academic aptitude, or the motivating desire for wealth? It’s up to the victims of our economy, and their sympathizers in the middle class, to point to the obvious injustice in much of modern economic practice as well as to the historic change underway in the nature of work’.
Though it may be delayed, the day is coming when our society will agree with John Kenneth Galbraith” …..
‘Everybody should be guaranteed a decent basic income. A rich country…can well afford to keep everybody out of poverty.’
Beyond a decent basic income every person who aspires to wealth … and is prepared to take the ACTION required … should have the freedom to pursue that dream and reach for the stars.
Let me finish with another quote from the Bible:
‘A feast is made for laughter, and wine maketh merry, but MONEY answereth all things’ Ecclesiastes 10-19
Money is not evil ,It is simply a tool to get us through life,
The sad part of it is the greed for it, It is a shame that we should be measured who or what we are by our wealth,
But this is what makes the world go round , Some of us find it easy to make money some of us find it hard , but at the end of the day it’s not where you start its where you finish that counts, But don’t ever forget the best things in life are free,
Regards to all you networkers ,
And to your success.
Thanks Hans, for a very balanced, educated and thoughtful comment!
The probem isn’t money . The problem is the currupt concepts we tend to build about the world around us . I think the prbelm lies in our minds which are the cause of tangible objects that we own ,encluding poor money ! But we refuse to be realistic when comes to deal with the contents of our life as whole .
When we refuse to recognize the input and output of our life in a rational we , then we should expect to have a miss as a result of being negative . The crisis revealed a great lies most people convince themselves with and work out their lives according to it !
A simple example ;If I know that I have only 100$ in my wallet , why I buy a necklace with 150$ ? Is it that important to get into debts to wear a necklace ? Why wasting time and effort trying to pretend the opposite of our reality while we are great people with and without these appearences ? The horrible fact the crisis revealed that we waste time and effort attaching our selves to materials and worse identifying ourselves as the materials are! While we should add our own flavour to the contents of life not the opposite.
A realistic person would invest the 100$ in his wallet to add his flavour to life . Then no matter the necklace , house , car …ets is , he would influence his objects cuz he knows that he owns them.
But when one is in debt for objects , then no matter how much he rejects the facts around him , he’ll deeply know that he’s the slave of his uncontroled wants ( or as people call it money) !
We tend to blame somebody or something for our own mistakes and missed decisions .
We should stop that and start to see life as it is . Not as we hope it to be .
Can’t wait to get started!
money is not the root of all evil. but the people who greed for too much in a wrong way. the corrupt people in the government, the kidnappers, the extortionists, and the lazy people who would rather cheat or fool other people to make money. we know that money can buy our needs and even wants. but money can’t be brought with us when we die. so aside from making money, we should also invest in doing good in this world. when we die, we leave everything here on earth, only our soul is what we take with us. Its good if we have created wealth here on earth and in heaven as well. there should be a balance. Some people who are too rich can already share to those who are really misfortunate, hungry, uneducated, sick, orphans, and aged. Some wealthy people wont share coz they thought theyre not yet rich enough to share, but they dont know some of the things they throw or waste on luxuries are already more than enough to buy food clothing or medicines to the poor. were so scared or afraid to get poor, so we strive hard to work and save money, for our future and for our kids. but money will just become root of evil when it’s earned or obtained by sinful way, and when greed for money already harm other people by killing, kidnapping, extortioning,& other unconsionable doings.
Financial Freedom: The Key is ME (Page 3)
When it comes to generating an income there are three kinds of people:
Those who EARN their money …
These are the ‘salt of the earth’ people who toil all day … 8 to 5 … for someone else in ‘a job’ or other long shifts and are more
often than not poorly remunerated for the back-breaking work they do. These people keep the wheels of industry turning …
and the ‘Fat Cats’ … fat! It includes most self-employed people who deal with customers one-on-one.
Those who MAKE their money …
These are the people who build businesses … large and small … and employ others to work for them. Their income is more often
than not vastly larger than that of the basic wage and salary earner. It is this group that contributes most to the general
advancement and wellbeing of the community through their vision, entrepreneurial courage and ACTION to make it happen.
This group also includes those who employ the principle discussed in the pages ahead.
Those who GET their money …
These are people, devoid of scruples and driven primarily by unbridled GREED, who milk the system, seldom
contributing anything of lasting value to the well-being of the community.
Most adept in this group are bankers, stockbrokers, crooks and conmen of all persuasions, legal practitioners and CEOs of
certain business ventures whose goldmine is the ignorance of the docile masses.
Meanwhile politicians of all kinds in the
ruling party, with very few exceptions, reward themselves most generously, and in many devious ways: from government
contracts awarded to their inner circle of friends and family; grotesque remuneration, ‘severance’ and ‘termination of
contract’ packages that run into millions; legalized theft, in the myriad forms of tax, collected from the entire community.
This ‘Gravy Train’ is for the select few!
Like ticks on a dog they frequently feast with such reckless abandon that the host slowly dies of starvation! (eg Zimbabwe)
Story sounds very Scientology like, though not bad at all..
when are you going to make some money for me?
joe… you have been left to your own devices, don’t you know? “if it’s to be, then it’s up to me” should be your adopted motto because no one is going to do anything for you, but they may supply you with the tools.
Responsibility IS the price of FREEDOM. If anybody today does not think that our freedom in America is under attack, my friend you are living in a cave waiting to be taken to slaughter.
It has taken me a while to see this but if anyone was to look at our current state of affairs in this country compared to history you will see that we as a Nation have stood longer than any nation in history. Today we are losing that due to the control that our government has that was brought on by the industrial revolution. Today people old and young are being taught to be dependent rather than self-sufficient. That is exactly what was in place when Hitler took over Germany.
This post is right on target Mike, I applaud you for your contribution the entrepreneurs of this great nation. This is the ONLY way this country has a future that will be of any thing that resembles a SUPER POWER!!!
I call to arms any and all entrepreneurs that what ever you are doing, do so with heart and might. Your very future and your kids’ future, in a free nation depends on it!!
“NEVER RETREAT, NEVER SURRENDER!!”
I ask all who read this, (Do you have what it takes, what kind of person are you??) $$$ is NOT the root of all evil!!
Each and everyones own innate self-righteous desires are what is evil!! Live Life – LEAD like no Tomorrow!!
Money is not the route of all evil. Money is the facilitator of all commerce and exchange. The evil is the immoral, the criminal, and the greedy who seek to destroy the delicate balance of profit.
Mary says;
Thank you for describing the love of money. Today, all the more reason to find ways of making money as the elite intrude into our lives. This is incentive to educate myself to be able to survive.
PJ Proudhon, the “father” of anarchist political theory, was obsessed with language and retranslated the ten commandments…He reinterpreted the “Thou shalt not steal” more appropriately to read..”Thou shalt not hoard”… It is not money or wealth that is “evil”, it is the hoarding of wealth that stops the flow of exchange and creates imbalances that cause injustice, and hence resentment. Invest your “talents”. To bury, hide or hoard them is a waste and a crime against others.
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA-MEN
I love money,with this program I will make as much as I want.
I agree. I just finished “The Creature From Jeckyll Island.” It’s a must-read for anyone who wants to know who and what is controlling our money. And those in this world who are producing must be acknowledged. We are the example. The wealth we create does not take away from others… it shows what is possible. God’s law is abundance. Money IS the life blood of a society. Exchange. Now each and every one of us must step into our greatness. That is our only choice. To become the Hero we are looking for.
Thank you for describing the love of money. Today, all the more reason to find ways of making money as the elite intrude into our lives. This is incentive to educate myself to be able to survive.
Just what I needed to read, exactly when I needed to read it. It’s good to be “in the flow”, again. Much gratitude to you Mike, thanks for all you do.
Plain and simple, my bible teaches that “the love of money” is the root of all evil. Money has never been a problem, the problem has always been the desire of people to get more, even at the expense of others (greed). We will always need some form of bartering, in our society money is the form. If anyone thinks money is the real problem, then they have missed the boat and will always will.
Mike I love Atlas Shrugged I agree 100% with this… Money is only a tool. If someone wants to make their life sustainable then they need to learn how to earn. The evil is only in the hearts of man, not in the love for money.
Peace Mike and thank you.
dom:)
A good article Mike, very well written, if a bit long. I jumped a bit in the middle but got a very good understanding of what you were saying and while I don’t necessarily agree with all points I certainly endorse your sentiment of value based society and the means of exchange and value created being money. Although I am sure you are well aware that money never is and never will be the root of all evil, but the love of money is the root of all that is evil.
Keep going and maybe one day we will get to the place where we can influence these people who hold the keys to our respective kingdoms.
Tony G (UK)
As one of Ayn Rand’s more enthusiastic fans since the late 1950s, I’m looking for ways around our nation’s current descent into socialist tyranny. If you’re interested in starting something, you might take a look at the blog piece at http://wp.me/plFIi-1 for a working definition of “socialism,” then see http://www.charliecoombs.com/GuerillaCommerce.htm for one possible approach to meeting the immediate crisis. The website at http://www.ChollyByGolly.com/ is offered as one practical implementation of the idea of guerilla commerce.
Remember: Most Americans and all Democrats are liberals; all liberals are socialists, and all socialists are either fascists, national socialists or communists. Let’s strike a blow for capitalism.
Tandem vincitur.
Right On Mike. The real problem we face is moral illiteracy. Corruption exists where moral values are weak or non-existent. We see evidence of unethical, devious and immoral decisions being made daily by America’s political leaders.
The idea that an “entitlement” represents something morally good is a perfect example of moral illiteracy. How can anyone explain that taking from Peter to give to Paul is anything less than statutory theft?
A government entitlement is by definition a minimum hand-out. Any politician who believes that a minimum will satisfy the masses is an idiot. This is the energy that creates civil unrest resulting in riots.
The moral equivalent of forced “redistribution” of wealth is statutory suicide.
God help us. No civilization can thrive under the leadership of moral illiteracy!
America has a major challenge facing her. Animation is causing massive changes in the industrial labor base of America. Her people have never been taught the value or skills of entrepreneurship. Public education historically focused on how to acquire and keep a job. The industrial revolution fed that concept well until men with vision discovered the benefits of animation.
A job is no longer the pathway to accumulating personal wealth or financial security. We must create new ways for the average person to participate in a legitimate wealth building industry. Technology, the internet, offers many potential solutions. However, it is fraught with immoral behaviors in hyped advertising, scam promotions etc. Whether or not behaviors of people using the internet can be redirected to moral and ethical wealth building strategies is yet to be realized.
To be truly free I must give everyone the same freedoms I want to claim for myself. To do so I must adopt and live my a moral code. I have rewritten the Golden Rule to read, “Do nothing to Anyone I don’t want done to Me.” A hand-up can be freeing. A hand-out can be paralyzing.
I don’t believe money is the root of all evil, but instead the love of money is the root. This is old fashioned greed. Money actually makes the world go round, take away money today and the economy as we know it collapses far more than a recession. It’s simply a method of exchange. Instead of bartering like the older days, we have replaced this simpler concept with monetary means of exchange for goods and services. With more money, you can help more people so i believe money to be an absolute necessity in the world we live.
Dwight Anthony
Financially Elite Blog
Thanks for putting this forward. I’ve been hearing people talking about reading this book for the second time. Once when it was first published, (I believe in the ’50′s?), and again now, and finding it relevant for these times we are living in. I am going to get myself a copy.
Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah to all.
What is TOO much?
What is enough for one may not be enough for another.
Each person has the right and freedom to make as much money as their efforts and abilities allow.
No limit is put on us….for now. Exceed to your wildest dreams, whether that be money, popularity, love, giving, work,etc.
Keep the freedom alive, with no restrictions. We all have equal opportunities, you just ahve to go for it.
Thank you
It is sinful to be broke when you have the ability to produce much. With out much you are not able to share your abundance and to make purchases that provides increase to those producing the goods you desire.
Maybe the lack of money is the root of all evil.
Somebody goofed when they called it “Free Enterprise.” The fact is, free enterprise comes with a price tag. The cost is responsibility. And we are all responsible. Responsibility is measured by businesses offering good products at fair prices. Employees who share in decision making – actively involved in every process, from policies to profits. Consumers who reject the deceptive, the poorly made, the over-priced, who voice their criticism…as well as their praise. When we all stand up and do our part; it works. The result is profits, for all of us. Profits at the expense of no one. Unfortunately, whether online or off, immorality runs rampant and waiting for someone else to make sure free enterprise keeps working is an expensive proposition. One that costs us all more than we care to pay.
mike you are very true to say that money is just a tool of exchange!nothing more. Thank you very much for posting this message, it leaves alot to debate about.
Mike ive got a question to ask you, up to now i do not understand how your package of knowledge can be integrated in my every day life, since i live in one of the developing countries that are backward as regards to technology so please if you dont mind, i would like you to give me a word of advise as an expert in your field. thanks
I don’t believe money is the root of all evil, but instead the love of money is the root. This is old fashioned greed. Money actually makes the world go round, take away money today and the economy as we know it collapses far more than a recession. It’s simply a method of exchange. Instead of bartering like the older days, we have replaced this simpler concept with monetary means of exchange for goods and services. With more money, you can help more people so i believe money to be an absolute necessity in the world we live.
oscar iloson
Thank you Mike for sharing this. You really inspire me and are a model for anyone who strives to live the abundant life God wanted us to live. Your generosity in sharing knowledge and helping mankind is priceless! Thanks for all that you do. I totally agree with you and this article and am forwarding to my teammates. Merry Christmas!
Hi evryone, happy new year
I am sorry but i have to disagree from the rest here.Global monetary system as it is present today is one root off the evil; not money buy itself. Thik about this money is debt. Ask yourselfe where does money come from? Who makes it ? At what cost ( interest)?
aleksander
Money is not the root of evil, it is the way, what and how people use is that makes it evil. Our banking industry is a good example because the way they used their customers money and put our country into turmoil. They are still ruling the economy even with their bail outs and pay backs. The small business man is about lost even though they employ 70% of the work force we can not get help as banks are controlling and holding back on loans to the small business man. In the state of Florida and am sure other states are facing the same thing, banks are not even loaning funds for SBA government insured loans. Even with the President urging banks to help, they are not helping. No, money is not evil its is the people that control it, the way they use it and do not use it for the common good of our country, businesses or our citizens that need help that are evil.
I love Ayn Rand.
Mike, you are one of my biggest heroes. You are the markter, the business-savvy, yet also philosophical.
You understand us. That it is us who allows THEM to live. It is us who BUILDS them their cities, their civilizations, their whole world crafted by us.
The producers. The very ones why money came to be. That was us and the ones who came before us.
Have a very Merry Christmas, I love you man. Stay cool, and keep up your work.
The world needs men of action, rather than the rats who borrow the human flesh.
To the top,
-Gregory Elfrink
What an eye opening e-mail. To have not only money, but one’s own contributions to his fellow man put into this context is enough to take away any questions as to why those of us with no money have no money.
Glad I read this. Might be what I needed to read to get my ass in gear and start to deserve what i desire.
Great topic indeed.Im gonna make it short.The main problem is not the money and everything else.Its the decaying moral values due to distancing one self from God.Thats the root of the problem.
Money is not the root of evil, as it is the sourse of existence. The lack of money brings to huhger, poor alimentation, diseases, homeless people and many other troubles. The problem consists in the culture of spending it and it depends on our bringing up and moral values.
Mike ,
Your truly a man with infinite knowledge ever since in seen you working with CCpro I said there is man with vast amount for massive action,to learn skills to model for the people.
this article is strong statement of what your made of, an many of us know already there is guru always on your shoulder.
I thank you for opening the deep reservoir’s of my brain an to
many others.
My heart goes out to you..Mike
To your sincere
efforts to others lifes
Merry christmas
Chief87 Jose
Good answer that, that is what I have already started to do.
Joe
Have a good xmas
Watching the news today, it is as if we are watching a story unfold, written by Ayn Rand. I read Ayn Rand’s books long ago, and have said this to myself ever since as I have watched the crooked politicians and politically connected “businesspeople” rob the American people of our money and our freedom.
Great read, thanks again for all you share.
Merry Christmas and Think Snow!
Very interesting. Made me think. I know now I need to continue to go forward even stronger to obtain my goals.
I wonder if the upper management at Emron would say the same thing??? I agree with your statements record for the most part. I think however I might want to say that I do not believe that the rumor properly stated is that Money is the root of all eveil. “I believe properly stated it says, “The Love Of Money Is The Root Of All Evil!” Now I wonder if that would change peoples preception of your post Sir?
As far as the statement about the Have Nots blaming the Rich and Powerful. I think history shows that this behavious has been going on for a damn site longer then my 50 years and I venture to state also that I believe the rich and powerful or the Haves If You Prefer Are So Over With The Need To Protect What They Have From The Have Nots of the world While Amassing More Wealth Which They Will Probably Never Spend. ” I Wonder If They Prove Conclusively That The LOVE Of Money Is The Root Of All Evil Or That if Power Corrupts Then Absolute Power Corrupts Absolutely? What Say You All?
Hi Mike ,
Seasons Greetings to you and everyone out there on the world wide web,
Money the wroot of all evil so they say , But without it what would we do ? And as far as Destroying the world it’s the peaple who control the money who are destroying our world,
Money is a tool to get us through life ,
Take for instance lets say you go to the casino you see a poker machine with a big jackpot so you start playing you get a few good features so you keep playing then you start chasing , That is when you start to loose so you see you have to have a system,
Just like networking Without a system you will loose ,
To your success.
Hi Mike,
I agree that money is a tool,not an evel force.I am on social security & I have a pention. Both I have paid into for over 25 years. Without it I wouldn’t be typing this reply. I belive I have the best products and give the people a fair value for thier money. I have been with you for a long time, used your information to help me.
As was said above, it gets you thinking about what your doing.
Hey Mike,
Great post man!
I truly believe the root of all evil is “not having money”, because as you have eloquently described, it’s a means by which we live our gracious lives.
We should be so honored and blessed with this commodity.
More people should concentrate on what they are grateful for, rather than what their neighbors are doing and how they are destroying the world. Who cares!!!
The only thing that is destroying them is their attitude and their chances of living a prosperous and joyous life.
The more we can be grateful, the better off everyone will be.
Thanks for sharing this post Mike.
Have a rockin’ holiday!!!
Jerome Ratliff
G day Mike ,
The best things in life are free you can give it to the birds & bee’s but give me money thats what i want yeh thats what i want , John Lennon,
That says it in a nut-shell ,
But the answer to the question ,No money is not evil only the lust & the greed for it, And regarding destroying the world of course not if anything its making the world go round for without it there would be no char’ity ,It is what we invest our wealth in what matter’s, And if we have been lucky enough to make plenty of money through our lives that puts us in a position to help people less fortunate , Then it has got to be the ulimate tool,
And also if we have the abillity to teach and pass on our knowledge and help people succeed then it is our duty to do so,
To your success,
Kindest Regards,
Roy.
I believe there is evil in having money also.I have been helping a family with food etc. Mom works but the Grandmother is handicapped . I have watched them struggle for 2 years now. No food etc. and I have helped them with many emergencies.The Grandmother can not walk far (exceeds 380lbs.)and the daughter is trapped taking care of mom and 3 children from a previous marriage. I thought I was doing good and it made me feel good to be helping but the truth is I was not. I was robbing my family of money we needed and went without so they would not be hungry etc. We are great friends but every time I suggest the daughter go to school and get a career I am shot down by her mother saying she can not take care of the kids any longer or they do not have the course they want locally or the only way she can get her training is . . . Before the suggestion comes out of my mouth there is a reason. As far as school goes I offered to pay for her to take a course at a local school as she wanted to be an ultra-sound tech but now I am told she would have to go to a different college. I give up. I am aiding them in their life of freebies. When I met them they only had 1/4 jar of relish in the fridge and no food.
They were sharing 1 can of soup for all of them and having 1 meal a day but still did not change. Die rather than change? Sometimes we need to be very careful that helping the needy is not just putting a band-aid on their issues. I was wrong so decided to offer education and they walked away from the offer. Astounding.From now on I will feed them when they are hungry but only if they get an education of some kind or find a better job.
Money is the tool to keep trade going. With out it we would find another way to trade. Credit did help by allowing people to make purchease they would normably have had to pass up. This in it’s self plus,bank loans,and greedy financial managers, findly our goverment not keeping within there budget helped to bring on this resesion. One other thing that has helped bring on this resesion, is all the out sourcing to foreign countries. This puts people out of work and increases the greed of busineses by using the laborers of these countries. The results, for example, China, they basicly own us. We have lost enough business in this country, that we can not put all people back to work at the wages needed to make ends meeet.It’s not our government to take of us. We need to take care of our selfs, by keeping in our budgets and making sure government stays in their budgets. When people start demanding our elected officials work for us and not just to fill their own pockets. The whole thing is we all need to buckle down and live resonably.
Thanks, Mike.
I have been searching for a word that best describes the current administration and congress….democrats, republicans, and independents.
You nailed it. That word is “LOOTERS”!
I thought a great new political party made up of all true American patriots to be called the “IOU” party. This has a double meaning…first the money that the looters have taken from us now and in the future; and, second, it would be the acronym for the “Incumbants Out Universally”. But, I now will think of ALL congress members as “LOOTERS”…..the greatest of all time…about$13 Billion and counting….is taking place right before our eyes and it is time to stop them in their tracks, send them all to GITMO as “enemies of the State”. They vote on bills they haven’t even read as long as they get “their” piece of the pork.
So, the “new” party’s mission statement should read “LOOTERS BE DAMNED”!
Get made, folks, and get involved because we can start evicting the LOOTERS come next Novemeber…..IF, we have the courage.
Thomas Paine, in “The American Crises” writes of a Tory who [begs] “Well! .”Well! Give me peace in my day.” Paine opined that ‘a generous parent would have said ?”If there must be trouble, let it be in my day, that my child may have peace;” and this single reflection, well applied, is suffeicient to awaken every mand to duty.
LOOTERS BE DAMNED! Reminds me of an earlier popular call of the times….”DON’T TREAD ON ME”.
November 2, 2010 can be the day of reckoning and that Americans start taking their county back! Don’t blame the LOOTERS for what they are doing. Simply look in your mirror and ask yourself….”What am I going to do so my child may have peace.
Richard Smith
Hey Mike,
Good post. I started to read that book a few years back, but remember not liking much of the philosophy the author seemed to be proponing. I may have to take another look at the book again.
This deals with what is perhaps the most often misquoted and misunderstood phrase in all of the English speaking world.
A more proper translation of this phrase found in the Bible from the original Greek to English reads,
“The lust for money is the root of all kinds of evil.”
Let me expound on that just briefly to avoid confusion by making a few quick points:
1) It DOES NOT say money is the root of evil.
2) It DOES NOT say that possessing money is evil.
3) It DOES NOT say that all evil has its root in money.
4) It DOES NOT say that all evil has its root in the love of money.
5)It IS saying that an inordinate love, or lust, for money is the driving force, or root, behind many types of evil acts.
Again, the love, lust, greed for money causes people to commit heinous acts. This has been illustrated over and over throughout history, and is continually and continuously being demonstrated throughout the world today.
And right now the United States of America is under attack from within and without by those who have a desperate lust for the consumption of money itself and the things it is a means of obtaining.
Some of these people have the power to take it and many do not, but all are crying out that they deserve it, that they are entitled to it by right. None are willing to give value in exchange, but deception, treachery, slavery are their offers.
And to their shame and ultimately their destruction these foul-minded beasts do not realize that the money has taken control of them–that the deception, treachery, and slavery by which they sought to gain advantage over their cohorts has been turned on them by the very money they lusted after. In the end they are deceived, ensnared, enslaved.
Thanks again Mike for the thought-food.
Dan Pine
Great post Mike! I particularly admire it because it’s coming from an American citizen. As always, thanks for your inspiring contributions!!
What an awesome piece of truth.
I live in South Africa and It would be the greatest thing if the Government of South Africa could read and understand this.
Thank You
Hey Mike,
Another great post!!
Here is something to consider. I am amazed someone hasn’t already said this, but isn’t worrying about money the same as loving money?
When we worry about money, because of lack, it causes all kinds of evils. But as you mentioned, most don’t want to take responsibility for the own lives.
Also in the Bible is the story of the talents and the one that got scolded the most is the one who didn’t invest them because of fear.
I really appreciate you sharing your thoughts
Sincerely, Jeff Faldalen
I agree to a point. Things have changed in our world unfortunately. The immoral and the lazy are laying siege on the productive. Through law they make the productive carry more and more of the burden.
Governments need the productive to take care of them. No president or any other leader in government is productive. They are the looters of those that produce. They rule by fear and coercion. We vote to encourage this.
Bankers produce or create money from nothing, worthless paper lent to governments on the promise to pay, through the only collateral they have left, you and me. They lend principal and demand back principal plus interest. Where does the interest come from it does not exist. It is forced onto the productive causing those who are not quick to become the victims of this shameful system. Whatever interest rate is to be paid is the amount of productive people who have to fail and forfeit everything they have worked for to pay these looters.
Money is not evil some people are evil bullies who get paid through instilling fear into there victims. The moral compass has changed and that’s all. Immoral people are looting the productive for the benefit of themselves and their families.
Revolution and the guillotine fixed that problem in France in the 1700s. Maybe this is what will happen again, so that once again balance can be restored.
Hey Mike,
Another awesome blog entry that was truly eye-opening. I believe that to a degree, money could destroy the world. Too many times politicians, industry CEO’s, lobbyists and others will put a dollar amount before the more important issue at hand. It’s a shame what greed and corruption has done to our own government let alone a large amount of businesses. There is nothing wrong with wanting to earn a lot of money, but ethics and integrity has to come in somewhere. I wish some of these morons would take a look at your post. Thanks for the information Mike!
As usual great content Mike! Thanks.
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I really think that money IS destroying our world… not to mention our lives in whole. We are working our a**es off (excuse my french) and getting what in return? STRESSED OUT for one thing.
This is a real sticky point with me… I wish we could go back to the barter system or something like that.
Yes, I know that it is not possible, but hey… one can wish can’t she?
Money is essential to a great happy life that you live with gusto and bravado. The end truth is that money is only good for the good it can do for others. I believe in the science of getting wealthy. Once you have created your wealth, you should help as many less fortunate seekers of wealth to attain what they seek. Require that they pay it forward, in exchange for your helping guidance.
Atlas Shrugged is still my 2nd favorite book. Ayn Rand was a great author and an unbelieveable predictor of what was coming to us. So many people seem to forget the good that “money” does like build hospitals, research, churches, schools and the list goes on and on. It doesn’t get done without “money”.
Hi Mike, this is a very good quote. I have read this magnificent book my Mom gave me my the first copy. I now have it in hardback and recommend it to everyone that I think could possibly grasp it. Did you see the Movie they made from her book The Fountainhead? The scene where Cary Grant is pleading his case of personal Intellectual property rights to the court this is an amazing bit of writing. Ayn Rand is an amazing Author thank you for reminding me of this quote.
I’d like to know more about what you do. Thanks.
> They blame money, and those who have it,
> for the problems of the world. They call
> money the root of all evil.
Ditto, Bro. Funny thing is, those who cry “money is evil” the loudest are the ones fixated on it and bent on taking as much of it as they can from those who refuse to be on the dole as one of the sheeple.
Mike
A resounding “10″, you speak the truth, and of a true entrepreneur. I follow you … you are blazing the way!!!
Lets leave the Guillotine and advance! To a new revo …(future) ;o)
Hi Mike,
This post stated exactly what I’ve been thinking about for the past several weeks.
I’ve been pondering the statement, “What you focus on expands.”
But if you focus on money you will not get more money as money is only a symbol of value.
You will not get wealthy by focusing on money any more than you will get fed by focusing on the menu at a restaurant.
What you need to focus on is, What value can I create? Only when you create value that will benefit other from will you receive money.
Thanks for the post.
Ruth
Hey Mike,
Love your thoughts on this very much. Here is a quote that I share with people all of the time. “You are either a producer or a parasite!” That always gets their attention and shakes them up a bit.
Mike,
This is the best post I have ever read on any blog. I am so inspired that I am pulling out my copy of Atlas Shrugged from my library for the first time in years.
The big difference between now and the great depression is the internet…we are living in the midst of a modern day gold rush. Unfortunately, most folks have no desire to learn the skills necessary to pan for the modern day gold. We are quickly becoming a two class society that is already past the tipping point.
Reading stuff like this post gives me the inspiration I need to tap into the infinite intelligence that is available to all of us if we can focus on the NOW instead of worrying about the future!
Great post!
Joseph Schmidt
Mike,
Now your’re talking my language. I learned more about the reality of (financial & moral) life from ‘Atlas Shrugged’ than any other book I’ve read. Keep preach’n, even if most don’t wish to hear it. Great, great article.
Warm Regards
Peter Grant
I would like to hear more about this in the future.
Wayne Rowlands
I haven’t thought about it the way you proposed but it seems that the unproductive are in the drivers seat right now and it seems to be getting worse .
Actually, the quote “money is root of all evil” is a misquoted scripture from the bible. The actual quote is “the LOVE of money is the root of all evil.” This is true. Thus, anyone can fall into this category, rich or poor. Of course money is not evil, it’s an object like anything else. In the context of the quote, it represents a heart issue more than anything else. Where your heart gravitates to is what you really love. You can’t serve/love both God and money.
Today is a fascinating time to study economics and finance because as you said there are opportunities galore. One of my favorite quotes is “there is opportunity in chaos!” I so believe that. And we must remember, “MONEY IS NEVER DESTROYED IT IS MERELY TRANSFERRED!” I’m positioning myself to be on the on the receiving end!
Thanks for all that you do,
Tracy
Mike,
As someone outside of USA I haven’t got the inside track you guys have. One can only go back to the Constitution and the reasons the US was the destination of so many immigrants. Somewhere along the line, your ancestors got a helping hand I guess. They maybe didn’t ask for it but got it all the same. People came to America because it was the land of opportunity without class prejudice.
So, is it still the same?
Are we discussing ‘new’ money issues or ‘always been here’ money issues arising out of two phenomena – the current economic crisis and the instant communication explosion enabled in part by the internet.
I also prefer (as Jeff F) the parable of the talents to the story of the money changers being thrown out of the temple. But for me it isn’t about the fear of doing nothing as per Jeff, it is the about demanding of yourself the courage and the drive to absolutely try to maximise whatever ability or skill you have, even if you do not reach your expectation. Optimistic, perhaps! And, oh, to have fun doing it and giving some back.
Murdo
I have to say that it is a good story, and that i enjoyed reading it. it is for deep thinkers.thanks a lot mike.
best regards, charles
Mike you have done a good job here. It will not heard by the moochers or the looters for they are in their belief systems. It will be heard by many that honor humanity and the power that lays within each and everyone of us. If enough of us start to believe in the power that is resident in each of us than the points you are attempting to make here will be heard from the heart and not just the intellect.
I read Atlas Shrugged this summer, and Fountainhead. It was almost enough to make me go republican ($-)). Just kidding!
I am now in the process of reading We The Living, which is pretty much Ayn Rand’s autobiography.
What I appreciate about her theory of Objectivism is that it is not about greed, but about results from effort. People that are taking the responsibility to create a business and produce, deserve the exchange from that effort. In this system, it is money. In another time it was gold. Whatever is of value at the moment.
Is money evil? Hell no. We have placed value on a piece of cloth and called it money. We could do the same with anything.
Actually, money is a promissory note, so technically in our debtor economy money is a promise to pay. I think the only “money” is gold. And, the only way to take money out of a system is to go to a barter system, but then something else would have value and then that would be considered money.
We are just doing the same thing humans have been doing since who knows when, it just looks different now. Read historical novels…same shit, different day.
Greetings Mr. Dillard,
Hi Mike.
The question of money beeing the root of all evil or the lack of it does not make it so.
My belief is how you obtain your money or spend it determines wether its evil or not. Thank you .
Victor
Hey Mike,
Producers, looters and moochers. I could not agree
more. It sounds like you are a fan of Neal Boortz
if not you should be.
Anyway great post and I look forward to reading more!
Travis
Gracias por la infromacion, me parece muy importante y ya habia leido algo de este tema de Kyosaky, es algo que debemos estar alertas y pensar en nuestras acciones, que importante es conocer puntos de vista como el tuyo y estoy agradecido que me lo compartas.
Luis FLores
Mexico, D.F.
All I can say is “Who is John Galt?” I have loved the philosopher Ayn Rand since I first read Atlas Shrugged in 1967. It is amazing how prophetic those pages are in telling the story of our time. I have heard many say it is just fiction and it will never happen. I hope they don’t choke on their words. The producers are being eaten alive. How long till they start dropping out?
Hi Mike, that was a great article, money in itself cannot be evil but the Bible says the love of money is the root of all evil. We know that to be true. Thanks for all the different thoughts you brought out on the subject. It’s certainly food for thought. Thanks again Naomi
Good aricle…but one small problem, for me anyways. He does state that “the love of money is the root of all evil”. Then he goes on to try and explain that it’s not…that part is wrong in my opinion. Love of money is whats caused a lot of the problems our country is now facing. The love of money will cause a man to cheat and lie his way to what he thinks are riches…he doesn’t stop to think it can become as ashes overnight The love of money will overcome the love of your fellow man…therein lies the biggest problem. Money is a tool..that is correct. Used rightly it can help one overcome many problems he faces…but used unwisely it just creates more problems. It’s the same as an addict that loves his particular drug of choice. He’ll do anything to obtain that “high”. The same with the one that loves money….ethics go out the window, and he may not even realize, or think, that what he is trying to do is only temporary.
Do I want money…sure…I appreciate having good tools..but those tools are useless if I don’t know the correct way to use them.
truly opened my mind about money.
To me I know money has no value, its just a piece of paper and yes it should be gold if we want to think it has value. But its just that we put so much value in money because of what can be exchanged for money.
But if you think about it for a second, you put value in money because it can get you that dream car. Well its not the money you value its the car….but than its not the car at all too, its the feeling you will get owning the car, driving the car.
So you don’t value money or the car, you value being recognized, or thrill, or prestige.
Awesome stuff today, glad i read this post,
Patrick Mitsuing
http://www.patrickmitsuing.com
Greetings Mr. Dillard,
I think you have hit the nail on the head. This nation has produced a sea of followers instead of honest value producers; that didn’t happen overnight but has been prepetuated for several presidental terms.
Cheaters, whether in government,politics,journalism,religion
will by fraud or force garnish an unearned income from those who create and profit from their creations.
I love the comment Wendy made, same s different day. The history they don’t teach.
So, great blog Mike, Great to see that someone is also cutting thru the web of illusions that have been so masterfully built for centuries.
I understand what you’re saying and as much as I want to be a part of your group, the fact is that I can’t even take off because I was trying to ask question, but it was always auto reply and I can’t get a straight answer from a live person. My computer knowledge is not really that much that I do not know what to do after I purchased your Magnetic sponsoring book.
You’re good, but I need to talk to people.
Thank you Mike for what you have written about the nature of money and human nature. These are words of profound wisdom and man of value. You see, I was brought up in a country (communist Poland) were money was seen as the greatest evil and we were always thought that good, wise and moral people have no money, which, of course, between lines meant that those who have are the worst people on the planet. It’s terrible, buy I have quite recently, due to my own effort and search (I mean some carufully chosen reading), discovered that each country, community, society has the history it deserves. It is really sad that people priding themselves on being intelligent and superior species, are in fact the worst vermins on this planet.
I think that people who are aware where the roots of problems in contemporary world are, should start speaking louder, I mean we should be more visible.
So far, once again, thank you so much for your voice.
Greetings from Poland.
Its completely weird that in 21st century someone believes that evil lays in money. Evil lays in people and only in people.
I could see from my teenage days how people wrong are when it comes to money and people who has the money. When my father started his chain supply company,there were other companies around – his competition and he personally knew other owners for years. Even I was very young and didn’t have a clue about business, I disagreed with him on his opinion and statements about his competitors .He always use to say :” You’ll see their end soon,they are making wrong investments,etc..” What I saw in him was just jealousy and fear that they are gonna push him off the market.What he did wrong was spending time and energy on gossip and wishing bad luck to others,instead of taking care of his own business..After few years,his company was closed.
Than,when I started my own company I could feel and hear almost the same things from the people who obviously have too much free time and nothing smart to do,like :”You all private owners,you are all the same..You are making money and don’t care about others!! ” ( You can imagine how hard it was to have private company after many ,many years in socialism and you can imagine how mad I was when I heard something like that behind my back). My answer to them always was :” Well if you think you can do better,why don’t you do it? ”
The bottom line of my story is : I can not do anything else but admire moneymakers and try to learn something from them.
Money is not evil,its a paper that we all use to exchange for something else and people who makes money aren’t evil – they are just smart!!
That which we have read
To those who hear and see
Need to be not dead
But alive and free
Money is but a word
That is used everywhere
It screams to be heard
to show that we care.
Its not the root of all evil
but a blessing in descuise
It vanishs quickly
right before our very eyes.
To use it rightly
To have it in hand
To have when needed
Is what we understand.
Thankyou for the thoughts.
Good evaluation; A persons worth is only as good as his education and/or experience! As you get more of each, and this takes time either way, his money making capacity moves more & more from his hands to his brain. More from repetition to intelligence. So, I repeat, value-or-money increases with education and/or experience. The problem is in the person! If they are honorable and self rightious their worth is honestly gained! If they have disruptive problems & low self asteem their worth is gained dishonestly. Whether you get your education in the schools or in the gutters, your experience and life style will follow the path you take.
well mike that was a great post.however i do have a few disagreements.first i use to think that this country was actually a great country.now at the tender age of 42 and living in this generation i have come to find out that people with money only care about them selves.there selfish ,arrogant and can’t stand the sight of the poor or misfortune.all of us in this country wasn’t born with a silver spoon in are mouths and was fortunit to have a strong support group are family to help us along the way.so we the under priviledge had to rely on a greater power than or selves to help us along the way.money isn’t evil it’s the love of money that corrupts a person soul.you see me destitute and hungry is the love you have for your fellow human going to allow you to reach down and give that person some love?or is the love of your money going to allow you to walk past that person?granted every man can’t be saved however if a person ask you for help it’s not your job to judge rather that person is going to spend the money on alcohol or any thing else.are job is to extend love to are fellow brother man and let god do the judging.that person whom you passed by could have of been an angle in disguise.all of that said money isn’t evil it’s the heart of that person with the money that makes it evil.this country was founded upon the constitution and in that constitution our for fathers gave God all the glory.and on that same dollar bill it says in god we trust.so if we trust in God why don’t we allow God to lead this country back to where she belongs.we wont because people with money think they are Gods.but when your dying the first person you call is god .this is not a sermon just the evil that i have witnessed first hand in this country.it isn’t the money are the earth that’s causing these problems but man that’s evil thats why i struggle every day at this computer to learn internet marketing so i can really give back to my community ,so when i hit those gates i wont be ashamed to ask saint christopher to let me in because my heart is good.
“Atlas Shrugged”
By Ann Rand interesting. I was settlement officer to the Vancouver Stock Exchange for Canada’s Largest discount Brokerage house late 80′s to 90′s. I am an equities specialist among other things. Money is the means for power the rest is trivial. Helping others to succeed and expand only brings you more power. I am interested in more of your views.
Brent
A great post indeed Mike, one could also say: The more things change, the more they stay the same. Obviously when Ayn Rand wrote the book you are quoting from on the subject of :Money is the Root of all Evil, things were really very much different and value for work produced still counted. And I can attest to that. I made all but $0.80 an hour as a jeweler arriving in Canada from overseas. But what I could buy with that is the other side of the story. Some 57 years later I own a nice property and draw a pension, but the financial storm that blew over us in the last 15 months or so destroyed much of the comfort I thought I had earned during those years. The real story however about the evil lies in an entity that calls itself The Federal Reserve Bank and mimicks as the central bank of the US. It is a privately held institution with its own agenda, and what has happened to the US and by osmosis to the world was caused to this agenda. Since 1913, when this bank was concocted in utter secrecy the US dollar has lost 95% of its value, the balance has gone by way of inflation, which of course is a neat little trick how to steal a country’s wealth. Not much will change unless the true value of the dollar and how to earn it is returned. Your posts are indeed inspirational and cause the thinking apparatus to spring into action. Well done, and keep them coming.
I read Atlas Shrugged a while back and I concur, it’s great reading and exactly the medicine this country needs right now. I read somewhere in a survey that people felt that outside of the Bible, that Atlas Shrugged was the best book they had ever read. If you haven’t read it yet, YOU NEED TO. Great post, Mike Dillard!
Good article, but way too long.
Makes a good point though, as a nation if you abuse the power of money, it will destroy you.
Mike,
Another good post and great insight. “Money is the root of all evil” actually applies to the actions that men take with that money. It is for what people do for money. But just like guns don’t kill people, people do…so it can be said about money. However, I have found that those that scream the loudest are usually the people who have the least. It is an ingrained response we have known since childhood. Babies cry and they are fed or changed. Some people never evolve beyond that.
Also an ingrained response is the fight or flight response. Most people can be envious of someone, and then rise to the challenge and earn what is there for all. Knowledge is a tradeable asset, as the most vauable commodity we have is time, and time is spent to achieve knowledge. So you can either spend your time and gain the knowledge, or take the short cut and buy it from someone who has already spent their time to achieve it.
It disgusts me that banks and stocks are where fortunes are made. People who have nothing of value to offer get rich off the sweat of others. We are an industrial nation at heart. The lessons are in the birth of this country. Business stemmed from providing services or goods to people who had a want. Something of value for something of value. Entrepreneurs filled the void of supply and demand. I think the demise of this great nation began when we as a society placed value to paper over all else. People aspired to obtain paper that had a fluctuating amount rather than the goods or service produced to make the paper have value.
Money makes the world go round. I believe in the American dream. I also believe that if we sit around and wait for someone to “bail” us out, then we are contributing to the destruction of that dream. History has shown that those that rise to face life’s adversity are the people that legends stem from.
I don’t understand why someone would pay hundreds of thousands of dollars to get into a great college to gain knowledge, yet someone who is successful is expected to give away their knowledge? Is it not the same concept?
Find a want, fill it, and prosper. Break that, and we are doomed to be enslaved by others. Work hard to produce something that others want and it will bring rewards. Wait for things to be handed to you and you are no better than the banks and ponsies who do nothing more than request your money and offer nothing in return.
Hi Mike
That’s a hard hitting one and true. My contribution is one of the attrition of business by outsourcing.USA mostly now or very recently layout all or most of its workers and migrated the life out of its people.Poverty and its attributes are evident in USA now.The love or hatred of money by the CEOs of those componies that outsource them to other poorly paid countries’ laborers have some explaining to do for these demise.
THANKS MIKE. IT NEEDED TO BE SAID AGAIN. VIVA A.RAND.I BELIVE IT’S A COMMENT ON THE DEMISE OF THIS COUNTRY’S CURRENT AND PAST POLICIES.LADY AMERICA HAS BEEN IN THE STORM TOO LONG.IT’S TIME WE COME TO OUR OWN RESCUE.
Nothing happens until someone sells something to someone!
Your premise and conclution are well stated
I love what you sai here: “Money will not purchase happiness for the man who has no concept of what he wants: money will not give him a code of values, if he’s evaded the knowledge of what to value, and it will not provide him with a purpose, if he’s evaded the choice of what to seek. Money will not buy intelligence for the fool, or admiration for the coward, or respect for the incompetent.” I agree with you 100% If people are not clear about they want they will never have money they truly deserve. People who do not have faith in themselves and their abilites will wind up beeing poor in the mind first. I see it more coming from another country. People got everything under their nose and they refuse to take it and use. Some know what they want but they want someone else to give them.. As you said Mike people ask for freebies because they are jealous and clearly lazy. I was fortunate to come to this country and learn from the best and yes we live in society of coupons, deals and savings and nothing wrong with that but people put that attitude toward people skills and talents. That is wrong.
Best to you Mike! Love your deep and honest thinking!
Tatyana Gann
keep it going
An article that deserves to be dropped in Obamas lap. I believe we are getting very close to that revolution Tony…..I believe in helping others as long as they are helping themselves with what help I give them, but it seems funny when the very same ones who are doing the giving find themselves asking for help it never comes to those who do give…. so I ask, are we now classified as looters? because of trying to achieve the knowledge to follow the changes needed to return to the level from which we have fallen?
I found the article interesting and also like the way it is written/presented. I do agree that money is not the root of evil. The greed or weakness of mankind is the root of evil.
Money is the reward of hard work; education; talent and sometimes luck. Money does not buy happiness, it supplments’ happiness in what it allows you to do. Whether it be fun vacations; purchasing something that you want; good deeds, helping someone in hard times to get back on their feet or not allowing a child to go unforgotten at Christmas time. I live in Las Vegas and many people say here that money is the root of evil, but it is usually the weakness of gambling that is the root of evil (when it steals the food out of the family’s mouth). After all, the loosers’ way surpass the winnners’. This country consist of rich and poor looters’ and that is why we are where we are in America today. Raegan once said, there are no smart people in government or businesses would hire them away. But, our government is saturated with GREED and greed at the expense of others’ is the root of evil.
Hi. my question is: what shall I (me) sell? just the stories that you have been giving me or what? I do not understand. It just air. can you give me something hardcore or not?
best whises
ANNE GUNN ROOS AUVE, NORWAY
One does not need to read Atlas Shrugged today. All you need to do is turn on the news and you can see the story playing itself out in our government and in our society today. Thanks for this post, Mike. I liked you before, but now that I know you’re a fellow fan of Rand, you’ve earned about 1,000,000 more points in my book.
Also, thanks for having the guts to speak your mind on here,
Tim Norton
In case you don’t know or might have forgotten,you’re a blessing to this world and the network marketing industry.
The earlier we all take responsibility of our lives the better.
Once again, I hear this very important bible verse misquoted , and then listen to people debate over it…….
The bible never says that MONEY is evil, but rather it’s the LOVE of money that is the root of all evil.
Abraham and others were blessed with riches, but because they were responsible with it and had a rich devotion to God, they used it as a tool for the proper purpose.
It’s a gift to have or not have money and yet, have a healthy perspective and attitude about it’s use and power.
Some things money can buy, and some things it can never buy.
In our life time, we have learned as christions to help one onther. If not done correctly, then you have people who will need help all the time. As it is said, you can feed a men a fish and he will eat for one day. Teach him to fish, he will eat the rest of his life. This may not be the exact words, but you get the meaning. We must allways be able to help those who need our help.
As for our government, in November this year a good number of these elected officials will be up for reelection. This is the time to make the changes needed, to where they realise they work for the general public and not themselfs. If we don’t change the electees every so often, we deserve what we get.
Thanks for the reminder. I read Ayn many years ago and have been caught up in trying to earn money without giving up my ideals ever since. I have always been self employed and -Wendy, I am a proud Republican.
I don’t know ehere this country is headed but it seems we need a resurgence of hard working people willing to stand up for their right to earn and keep their income.
Thanks you for intelligent consideration of this longstanding misconceived idea and sentiment that money is the root of evil. I have always liked, and have adopted the view expressed by some wise person, that money is simply crystallised energy. This is seen from a spiritual point of view.
And so it it is merely a cultural psycho-economic instrument, representing a social contract whereby people in the (world) society agree that for it to represent exchange of values between human beings: values of produce or of service.
In this respect, money is a logical development that coresponds to the level of advancements in human civilised societies.
Just like a knife, made of the finest steel, is also an emblem of human advancement in knowledge – compared to its equivalent in the society of stoneage man – money is a wonderful instrument. It has tremendous use-value in the hands of good people with good and noble character and intentions.
However, money, like the knife can, and all too often historically and is still today also abused in ways that can only be described as cold, calculating evil! But it is to be noted that it is the ab/user of the instrument that is characterised by these negative attributes.
And I have to say, that vanity, greed, jealousy, conceit, envy,fear and many of the other well known unsavoury conditions that human beings have cultivated within themselves, are often the very same negative sub-moral attributes that often underpins and motivate the evil use of both money and knife.
The truth is that proverbial (and yet oh so real) “fall of man” from our true nature and status as real (spiritualised) human beings, is actually what is at the heart of literally all our personal, social, cultural, economical and global problems; and I am not talking religion here, because that too, as objective observation shows, continues its historical role of being part of the problem. And as I always say Truth stands above all religions – but this also includes the “religionesque” blind faith that many intellectual materialists have come to adopt in respect to a purely materialistic science.
I could go on, however, let me cut back to the chase and say that the social political economic systems of this world, their infrastructure, institutions and operations are logically bound to be distorted and unjust, which also logically means unfair, unequal opportunities structured into the very fabric of the system. This is what certain individuals do perceive and out of noble compassion for their fellow human beings, strive to even-up a bit through certain policies or legislations.
But of course, relative to the real core of the problem which characterises every human being regardless of race, sex, class or nation (i.e. the Spiritual fall of wo/man)even these compassionate polices, just like its opposite more lesaffaire ideas and policies, can only at best ever result in unsustainable piecemeal cosmetics.
Because we must never forget,that money and its use can only ever be a reflection of the inner state of the human beings that pursue it, worry about it, who have or don’t have it, etc.
The distorted nature money’s use value today is also reflected in the fact that a teacher, a nurse and other more human life-centred professionals, are struggling to survive on what they are paid. This is compared to a boxer, a footballer, etc. Here are examples of how the “fallen” distorted nature of human beings are reflected in distorted monetary valuations of different functions in society.
Children growing up deep down see and sense that these are distorted systems of monetary valuations, albeit driven by market forces; but note: by materialistic market/ commercial (vanity, greed, glamour, envy, etc) forces. The sensing is strong that the world of money is not driven by more hamane or moral forces. People grow up and with the drive to survive they (many) adopt and adapt. Money is recognised and accepted as KING.
Driven by the strongly socialising effects of the ubiquitous commercial world that constantly bombards the minds of everyone, rich and poor alike, mindsets quickly enough develop alongside a reinforcing culture to “get rich or die trying”. At least that is one of many variants of the same attitude of mind.
This is an attitude which is also expressed within the very top levels of commercial institutions, banks, etc. And wasn’t the greed at the top that caused the recent credit crunch.
The real focus must be upon the real root of evil in general, within human beings, which is the spiritual fall of human spirits into the darkness of ignorance about life, self and reality. We need to regain an accurate cosmology of our existence.
That source of “living knowledge” is now here for those who are earnest seekers of th Truth.
I wish us all a more spiritually enlightening 2010 and new decade.
Lawton Brown
UK
A truly holistic knowledge and understanding of human self, life and reality is now absolutely and logically necessary, in order to help bring about the human self-transformations that need to happen first before the evil use of money and knife can ever be eradicated.
The source that was being improperly quoted is
“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.” It comes from 1Ti 6:10. It is issued as a caution to the one who makes money his god. This is not a condemnation of wealth but the placing of money ahead of prescribed values such as “serve others without want” or “Teach, educate” and “start giving your knowledge away freely”. It is also not refering to one who seeks money to care for his family nor to sponsor a feeding program for starving children!
I would like to find someone to help with financial hurles but also time, I am self taught on the computer and would love to have someone show me how to build a website. I would use a money making website to help fund my non profit. Humble Homes Inc. is set up to help the elderly, hadicapped, unemployed, and underemployed. by trying to help these people find sources of income we can help the whole country. instead of just giving money and time put that money and time into teach and leading people to make their own way.
Well I just wanted to say I know an ex banker and even though it’s a shame at how much payback is not the principle & credit cards are out of this world I think we would all have to agree that he carried out the daily life doing things that we are all asking to be done? Credit cards may be as bad as they are but it would seem that all of america is going for it? I think the truth is that it stinks that we all don’t have money for all the things we’ve either gotten are selves into or just won’t sacrifice and do without, Mike I agree w/you about money and who deserves it but the guy I resemble most right know is the one you talk about early on- I just cooked a big huge bowl of pasta with spagetti sauce I’m over the edge but only becouse somebody busted out my truck window & took everything,
as soon as I can I’ll hop on board again, then I think my next
big hurdle will be to obtian quality mail listings! Not asking or looking for anyfreebees though, “good thoughts on the perception of money, honestly”
Sean.
hurdle will be to obtain quality mailings!
Hey Mike
Great to see you are reading some books.
You will be amazed where it takes you if you keep going.
I’m sure you are starting to see, since you are a
family man now that money and things aren’t what
make the world go round.
The ultimate gift to your friends family and country
is your Love, in the form of your time, thoughtfulness
careing and good works done without the desire or
need for recompense.
This is the real freedom, the freedom that every
writer tries to put into words in a book.
Ayn Rand does her bit…in trying to describe
this freedom and hopefully it kindles the desire
to continue on with the search for other books
and philosophies that provide the Wisdom we so
desperately need today
I guess as we get older,
a flower, a touch, a smile or word of encouragement
become the expressions of our Wisdom.
They are the ultimate, unchanging, eternal currency.
They cannot rust or rot away.
I know I strayed off the topic here
but thanks for the forum.
It’s true….we are trying to keep the home fires burning
but nobody wants to chop the wood.
For me…I’ll Pray devoutly and Hammer Stoutly.
God Bless you brother Take Care RP
OZYMANDIAS
A Poem by Percy Bysshe Shelley
I met a traveller from an antique land
Who said: “Two vast and trunkless legs of stone
Stand in the desert . . . Near them, on the sand,
Half sunk, a shattered visage lies, whose frown,
And wrinkled lip, and sneer of cold command,
Tell that its sculptor well those passions read
Which yet survive, stamped on these lifeless things,
The hand that mocked them, and the heart that fed:
And on the pedestal these words appear:
‘My name is Ozymandias, king of kings:
Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair!’
Nothing beside remains. Round the decay
Of that colossal wreck, boundless and bare
The lone and level sands stretch far away.”
Mike, this is a wonderful post. I read Atlas Shrugged about five years ago after I read The Fountainhead and became fascinated with Howard Roark.
Even though I love Ayn Rand’s philosophy I don’t believe that these two books I love so much would be enough to solve our current economic troubles.
Even Warren Buffet admits that it would have been drastically worse to let the banks fail. That then makes us wonder if it’s good to let the banks get this big.
We now see sites like http://prosper.com popping up where we can lend money to other people nearly directly. Also other micro lending sites like Kiva.org are helping us to get used to the idea of one man lending to another man.
In any event, I love reading your posts. I hope you start to post more of your thoughts on these more difficult worldly issues. You’re the perfect man to do it.
Lets make it a little closer to the bottom line truth. Money is a marker of percived measure of power.It is the result of the dumbing up of our society. We as a people have sold our honor in exchange for greed. This has happened since WW2 by generations of sex, drugs and rock and roll, combine this with spoiled children ,free education expounding I.g.m.a.y.t.= I got mine and yours too. Money is only the marker of how much you can obtain, regardless of how.
We are to shallow to realize what we are loseing.
Great article. You are correct. Money is not the root of all evil. If I were to assign that title to anything, it would be that the desire for power or control is the root of all evil.
Of course, money is usually a tool that is used to accomplish that desire.
Look forward to seeing more articles like this one in your posts.
Terry
I read Atlas Shrugged many many years ago and loved it. Recently I bought it again and have started reading it again. What I find amazing is now that I have purchased the book again and started reading it again. I find mention of it popping up, (I believe to encourage me) all over the place.
Enjoyed your post.
Corinne
Thank you for your intelligent consideration of this longstanding often misconceived idea and sentiment that money is the root of all evil. I have always liked, and have adopted the view expressed by some wise person, that money is simply crystallised energy. This is seen from a spiritual point of view.
And so it it is merely a cultural psycho-economic instrument, representing a social contract whereby people in the (world) society agree for it to represent a process of exchange of values between human beings: values of produce or of service in respect to quality, supply and demand.
In this respect, money is a logical development that also coresponds to the level of advancements in human civilised societies.
Just like how a knife made of the finest steel, is also an emblem of human advancement in knowledge – compared to its equivalent in the society of stoneage man – money too is a wonderful instrument. It has tremendous use-value in the hands of good people with good and noble character, causes and intentions.
However, money, as in the case of the knife can, and all too often historically and is still today also abused in ways that can only be described as cold, calculating evil! But it is to be noted that it is the human ab/user of the instrument that is characterised by these negative attributes.
And I have to say, that vanity, greed, jealousy, conceit, envy,fear and many of the other well known unsavoury conditions that human beings have cultivated within themselves, are often the very same negative sub-moral attributes that often underpins and motivate the evil use of both money and knife.
The truth is that the proverbial (and yet oh so real) “fall of hu/mans” from our true nature, path of development and status as real (spiritualised) human beings, is actually what is at the root of literally all our personal, social, cultural, economical and global problems; and I am not talking religion here, because that too, as objective observation shows, continues its historical role of being part of the problem. And as I always say Truth stands above all religions – but this also includes the “religionesque” blind faith that many intellectual materialists have come to adopt in respect to a purely materialistic earthbound science.
I could go on, however, let me cut back to the chase and say that the social political economic systems of this world, their infrastructure, institutions and operations are logically bound to be distorted and unjust, which also logically means that unfair, unequal opportunities and bias are structured into the very fabric of the system. This is what certain individuals do perceive and out of noble compassion for their fellow human beings, they strive to re-balance the situation through political social actions or legislations.
But of course, in respect to the real core of the problem (i.e. the Spiritual fall of wo/man)which has come to characterise every human being in varying degrees, regardless of race, sex, class or nation, even these compassionate polices, just like its opposite more lez-affaire ideas and policies, can only at best ever result in unsustainable piecemeal cosmetics. Paper over the cracks at the core of our human nature.
Because we must never forget,that money and its use can only ever be a reflection of the inner state of the human beings that pursue it, that worry about it, that have it or don’t have it, etc.
Today, the distorted nature money’s use value is also reflected in the fact that, for example, a teacher, a nurse, a fireman and many other more human life-centred professionals, are struggling to survive on what they are paid. This is in stark contrast to a boxer, or a footballer, for instance. Here are examples of how the “fallen” distorted nature of human beings are reflected in distorted monetary valuations of different roles and functions in our (world) society.
Children growing up see and sense that these are distorted systems of monetary valuations, albeit driven by market forces; but note: by materialistic market/ commercial (vanity, greed, glamour, envy, etc) forces. Their intuitive sensing is strong that the world of money is not primarily driven by hamane or moral forces. People grow up and (with the drive to survive) they adopt and adapt to the distortions of many values – including that of money. Money is thereby recognised and accepted as KING.
Moreover, driven by the strongly socialising effects of the ubiquitous commercial world that constantly bombards the minds of everyone, rich and poor alike, mindsets quickly enough develop alongside reinforcing cultures and sub-cultures to “get rich or die trying”. At least that is one of many variants of fundamentally the same general attitude of mind.
This is an attitude which is also expressed within the very top levels of commercial institutions, banks, etc. And wasn’t it the greed among top bankers and financiers that caused the recent credit crunch.
The real focus must be upon the real root of evil in general, within human beings; which is the spiritual fall of human spirits into the darkness of ignorance about the deeper nature and meaning of life, self and reality. We need to regain an accurate cosmology of our existence.
That source of “living knowledge” is now here for those who are earnest seekers of th Truth.
A truly holistic knowledge and understanding of human self, life and reality is now absolutely and logically necessary, in order to help bring about the human self-transformations that need to happen first before the evil use of money and knife can ever be eradicated.
I wish us all a more spiritually enlightening 2010 so that a more peaceful and eqitably prosperous new decade may unfold.
Lawton Brown
UK
I really was impressed by this post when I read it the first time Mike…and like it even better the second time around. Ayn Rand had it pegged…and the fact that you use her philosophy and world view to make your point, indicates that you do as well.
Peace and Abundance,
Deborah Tutnauer
Mike,
I agree money is a medium of exchange and it all depends on whether the exchange is a rip-off; a partial exchange; a fair exchange or an abundant exchange (where you give more than expected). These levels of exchange were researched by none other than L. Ron Hubbard and he always practiced the highest level (exchange in abundance). His writings on money, banking, and ethics are profound.
Also, if you haven’t read the updated edition of “The Creature from Jekyll Island” you will not be able to predict what the international bankers (AKA, the FED)are doing next.
Mike: Tony said it right (above). Your post was a solid A! But, the answer to the question is a distinct NO! It isn’t money destroying the world – it is greed and personal aggrandizement. The University of Edinburgh history professor, Alexander Tyler said it well years ago when he acknowledged the demise of the greatest civilizations occurred in about 200 years. He said, there was always an eight stage sequence in the cycle: (Why can’t we learn from such history?)
1- “From bondage to spiritual faith;
2- From spiritual faith to great courage;
3- From great courage to liberty; You decide what phase
4- From liberty to abundance; of the cycle we are
5- From abundance to complacency; in today.
6- From complacency to apathy;
7- From apathy to dependence; Bondage = socialism/
8- From dependence back into bondage.” communism/dictatorship.
Add to this, the monumental work of G. Edward Griffin’s: “The Creature from Jekyll Island” and you have further evidence about the role of money in world affairs. He explains the cause and effect of profligate and deceptive practices of the founders or our fourth failed central banking system – hence a spiraling mountain of out-of-control debt at all levels of government as well as individual debt. So it is men not money destroying the world and certainly the plight and scourge of our once great nation.
Dr. Jerome Corsi titled his recent book: “The Late Great U.S.A.” which very well could be called the epitaph for our nation – unless!! I have been speaking on this interesting topic of money you so beautifully wrote about. Norman Rockwell, painted America so willingly and beautifully but near the end of his life he wrote the following which can be seen at the National Boy Scouts of America Museum in Dallas: “Wen America believed in herself, I was willing to be painting her.” NOTE the past tense of the verbs. He may have written that in the 70′s and shows how discouraged he may have been at that time. We must be working to defeat the liberalism which dominates every facet of life today – moral decay and decadence, hence money problems.
NO, it isn’t money destroying the world or even America – it is the depravity of man. The Tiger Woods story is a perfect illustration and his life and family need new lives rooted in spiritual teachings. Britt Hume had it exactly right. An understanding of the Bible and commitment to its fundamentals will be the necessary healing force. So too, it is necessary our nation be led back to those principles of spiritual faith – then the specter of bondage will become of no consequence.
Christianity bears the brunt of full attack by a liberal left knowing nothing about what Christianity really is and unwilling to study it. As a nation, we have fallen so low because we left those standards that set Christianity apart. Today, we better give it a try again to see if we can capture some of the spirit our forefathers used to make it work, because everything else we have been trying surely hasn’t helped.
Enough – Thank you for “listening.”
Mike,
I DON’T THINK THIS MADE IT INTO THE US MAINSTREAM MEDIA…
IT’S A PRETTY HARSH VIEW OF AMERICA
Subject: Russian view on America..worth the read
The irony of this article appearing in the English edition of Pravda (Russian on-line newspaper) defies description.
American Capitalism Gone With A Whimper
It must be said, that like the breaking of a great dam, the American descent into Marxism is happening with breath taking speed, against the back drop of a passive, hapless sheeple, excuse me dear reader, I meant people.
True, the situation has been well prepared on and off for the past century, especially the past twenty years. The initial testing grounds was conducted upon our Holy Russia and a bloody test it was. But we Russians would not just roll over and give up our freedoms and our souls, no matter how much money Wall Street poured into the fists of the Marxists.
Those lessons were taken and used to properly prepare the American populace for the surrender of their freedoms and souls, to the whims of their elites and betters.
First, the population was dumbed down through a politicized and substandard education system based on pop culture, rather then the classics. Americans know more about their favorite TV dramas than the drama in DC that directly affects their lives. They care more for their “right” to choke down a McDonalds burger or a Burger King burger than for their constitutional rights. Then they turn around and lecture us about our rights and about our “democracy”. Pride blind the foolish.
Then their faith in God was destroyed, until their churches, all tens of thousands of different “branches and denominations” were for the most part little more then Sunday circuses and their televangelists and top protestant mega preachers were more then happy to sell out their souls and flocks to be on the “winning” side of one pseudo Marxist politician or another. Their flocks may complain, but when explained that they would be on the “winning” side, their flocks were ever so quick to reject Christ in hopes for earthly power. Even our Holy Orthodox churches are scandalously liberalized in America .
The final collapse has come with the election of Barack Obama. His speed in the past three months has been truly impressive. His spending and money printing has been a record setting, not just in America ‘s short history but in the world. If this keeps up for more then another year, and there is no sign that it will not, America at best will resemble the Weimar Republic and at worst Zimbabwe.
These past two weeks have been the most breath taking of all. First came the announcement of a planned redesign of the American Byzantine tax system, by the very thieves who used it to bankroll their thefts, losses, and swindles of hundreds of billions of dollars. These make our Russian oligarchs look little more then ordinary street thugs, in comparison. Yes, the Americans have beat our own thieves in the shear volumes. Should we congratulate them?
These men, of course, are not an elected panel but made up of appointees picked from the very financial oligarchs and their henchmen who are now gorging themselves on trillions of American dollars, in one bailout after another. They are also usurping the rights, duties, and powers of the American congress (parliament). Again, congress has put up little more than a whimper to their masters.
Then came Barack Obama’s command that GM’s (General Motors) president step down from leadership of his company. That is correct, dear reader, in the land of “pure” free markets, the American president now has the power, the self-given power, to fire CEOs and we can assume other employees of private companies, at will. Come hither, go dither, the centurion commands his minions.
So it should be no surprise, that the American president has followed this up with a “bold” move of declaring that he and another group of unelected, chosen stooges will now redesign the entire automotive industry and will even be the guarantee of automobile policies. I am sure that if given the chance, they would happily try and redesign it for the whole of the world, too. Prime Minister Putin, less then two months ago, warned Obama and UK ‘s Blair, not to follow the path to Marxism, it only leads to disaster. Apparently, even though we suffered 70 years of this Western sponsored horror show, we know nothing, as foolish, drunken Russians, so let our “wise” Anglo-Saxon fools find out the folly of their own pride.
Again, the American public has taken this with barely a whimper…but a “free man” whimper.
So, should it be any surprise to discover that the Democratically controlled Congress of America is working on passing a new regulation that would give the American Treasury department the power to set “fair” maximum salaries, evaluate performance, and control how private companies give out pay raises and bonuses? Senator Barney Frank, a social pervert basking in his homosexuality (of course, amongst the modern, enlightened American societal norm, as well as that of the general West, homosexuality is not only not a looked down upon life choice, but is often praised as a virtue) and his Marxist enlightenment, has led this effort. He stresses that this only affects companies that receive government monies, but it is retroactive and taken to a logical extreme, this would include any company or industry that has ever received a tax break or incentive.
The Russian owners of American companies and industries should look thoughtfully at this, and the option of closing their facilities down, and fleeing the land of the Red as fast as possible. In other words, divest while there is still value left.
The proud American will go down into his slavery without a fight, beating his chest, and proclaiming to the world, how free he really is. The world will only snicker.
Stanislav Mishin© 1999-2009.. «PRAVDA.Ru». When reproducing our materials in whole or in part, hyperlink to PRAVDA.Ru should be made.
The opinions and views of the authors do not always coincide with the point of view of PRAVDA.Ru’s editors.
Money is imbued with gatred with people and people.
Money is a Tool – not the Goal.
As long as it is ‘flowing’, it is serving it’s purpose.
When the flow stops, it then becomes a liability.
This is a Fantastic article!!!
Mike,
Well said!!
Mike,
Some of the responces i have read bring in the religon factor into the mix. Money is money, evil is evil. What difference does it make what you believe in. Money is not destroying the world it is the greed of the people that use it for their own drug,ie:just think of all the Ponzi scams of 2009. What was that about? also just think of the big business that we just bailed out, they put themselves in that position and them come to us to bail them out.
Another issue, what about our banks, they control the whole deal.I have another term for them, but i wont say it because i dont want to affend anyone.
I’m a huge fan of Ayn Rand’s work, and the objectivist philosophy. Free markets, and free will lead to growth and prosperity. More government and regulation leads to less growth and prosperity.
Thank you Mike for this important essay on the value of money as a means to an end, but not the end itself.
We are currently surrounded by an administration and nation of looters and moochers who wish to steal the prosperity so may of us have worked for.
God Bless America
Hi Mike,
This was a fantastic article and story. You might also enjoy “The Gift” by Ron Reynolds. Very much in line with this.
The tide is turning fast, and in China’s favor. They are outselling us in everything. As a matter of fact, there was a news snippet I caught about China actually achieving this benchmark. Both in autos and production.
America is outsourcing all its labor and customer service jobs. China has the leverage and we’re being left in the dust. The scary thing is, most people don’t notice, pay attention, nor care. It’s gonna be a scary day for many people in the future. The near future.
Thanks Mike, for all you do educating us and sharing your views, opinions, and life with us. I appreciate it.
Thank you for sharing this passage. These are powerful words, and very timely for the place that we find ourselves as a Nation. They should be broadcast on every primetime news hour, every classroom from 1st grade to the last year of College. They should be read on the floor of our Congress, with all members required to be present. In fact, I would like to see our President read these words to the American People, and then raise his right hand and take an oath to restore America to Her worth as a Free Nation, based upon the original intent of Goodwill by our Founding Fathers.
I have not read this book, but I now shall. It helps me to understand the conflict within my own being, raised up in a consciousness that did not support the noble image painted by these words.
Thank you. To Liberty, and the Love of sound Money
Mike
we are educated to conform and for the reasons in the passage we are molded to the society we are brought up in.
I am on of life’s late learners and progressing slowly with the help of mentors that encourage me to understand from a different prospective.
55yrs of age and starting out on a life to support my old age
I wish I had been educated earlier
Thanks
Trevor Laker wwwguyraparkmotel.com.au
Too many people think that money is a “thing” and that there is only a certain amount of it . . . not realizing that money is a created store of value made manifest by the application of man’s creative imagination (of which there is no limit).
It is this limited view of money that “justifies” its management and redistribution by people who don’t know the first thing about making money.
Economically speaking,nothing happens until someone buys something . . . and not much of that would happen without entrepreneurial sales people to make it happen.
Hello Mike,
This post was/is awesome. I would like to quote a few of the others but don’t have the time. I would just like to say I agree with you that money is not the root of evil. As quoted from 1Tim. 6:10 by Gene Hollick “”For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”". This is something I have believed in all my life (70 years)
I will say that I have been guilty? of asking not so much for a handout but for help in getting started in my quest for a business online. I am one of those living on Social Security. Unfortunately, I know that it is my fault because when I was young I didn’t prepare for the future so I wouldn’t have to live on the government. Now I need help just to get started.
I have been aware of the fallen character of these wonderful United States of America and pray every night to be able to do something to help the young people today to not make the mistakes I did.
I thought just working to take care of my 6 children was enough. But now I know that there was so much more I should have been doing. I’m trying to make up for it now.
God bless you and yours and may your new marriage bring you all the happiness you and your wife deserve.
With much love,
If money is the root of all evil, then are all cars and guns evil because some kill? Is all rock music (this one is personal) the devil’s music??? The bible says the “love of money” is the root of all evil. The love of money is greed…because money becomes an idol not a tool. Just like guns, cars, and yes rock music are tools. It is not the tool, but the hand and the mind that wields it. There is power in all the items listed above. Do they control us or are used to control others, or do they serve us and allow us to serve others??? One thought that guides me from Zig Ziggler is “the secret to living is giving.”
Hi…. Mike,
It is a very good & useful mail,thank you, Money is not distroing world,but missuse or egoist use is distroing world..
this is my thoughts.
Dinesh…
I did not read down your whole page because the first paragraph got my blood boiling. I worked 30 plus years on the railroad and now draw railroad retirement. Does that make me a looter? My wife worked 30 plus years as a nurse and now draws social security. Does that make her a looter? All the time we were working we payed into to these programs. I do not feel guilty for drawing my benefits and I don’t think I’m a looter.
Jim
Amen to the TRUTH!!!
Good Morning Mike
Having just woken, made my son his kiddie coffee, my real one, single dad, this is my morning, as always opened my mail, I find this….
I have just been fired from my job,Christmas, live on a small island that is losing its edge fast,no prospects at all, i find myself in a position, no way of getting out of the cycle i find myself in, then your mail this morning, to say my eyes have been opened.
Never thought one letter from a respected internet marketeer would change my beliefs so drastically..
Its like switching on a light bulb.
The earlier we all take responsibility of our lives and become our own providers…
Mike Thanks for the wake up, to long have i been a monkey to the corperate world, now, today i am not going to answer
HOW HIGH??,
Thanks Mike….2010 is MY year
Ah…Beware the trappings of “Financial Purification”. To quote an earlier post…
“The rich get richer because they only invite and interact with other prosperous people.The common man sees this behavior as “stuck-up” and “snobby”. The rich simple see it as an unfortunate necessity, as I do.”
I myself see this interaction in a somewhat different light… And that light would be the enlightenment of a FORTUNATE NECESSITY that only comes from the strength of moral men as versus those who are looters of our divine destiny.
Hi Mike,
It seems like 100 years since I enjoyed reading Avn Rand, I realize now with your refresher, that I basically have been following those principles, I guess, subconciously. I still, however, like the barter system in some instances. I repaired a door closing device in a restaurant located in Barcelona Spain. The manager, after testing the door said “Great, what do I owe you?” My answer was, “How about a nice dinner?” She said, “Done”. Result: I got a wonderful dinner and the restaurant saved a bunch since they had not found anyone previously who could fix the thing, and I also made a customer for life! I never thought of money as an end in itself, but as a means of acquiring certain things on a one by one basis. When asked here in the states what I required to be a maintenance supervisor for an apartment complex, I answered, “10$ a day and a free apartment”. Unfortunately they wanted a guy for 17$ an hour to work alongside a couple of kids and take responsability for them, no way Jose! ie.. Supervisor, yes, grunt no!
I´m glad that Lawton Brown is holding down the fort in England, maybe it would be better if he was in China chatting it up with Yeping Wang.
I hear you loud and clear Mike and agree with you 100%. However, I would like to correct the saying that “Money is the root of all evil.” It’s original and correct quotation says: “The LOVE of money is the ROOT of all evil.” When men love money beyond integrity and honesty, then we have serious trouble!
The first wealth is health. In troubled times like these we must preach the old ways.
Getting back to old fashioned values,
This will inspire people to change.
Things like health. Hard work and leadership, will inspire new generations, to become more creative and industrious.
Then countrys will change. And we will take our place among the history of men
Matthew Robinson