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Retirement often brings a new perspective to the many who have entered into this era of life. John spent much of his time calculating finances. It was very important. Every penny required wise allocation. This backdrop was the setting as John stared blankly at the bank ledger on his computer screen.
There were certain contract terms, very simple terms, requiring compliance to qualify for an exceptional interest rate on a simple checking account. The simplicity of the agreement made failure to meet the qualifying terms almost impossible. John was, therefore, shocked when he observed the entry for the last month of interest had been reversed. It was obviously his fault. One whole month had passed without an electronic, ACH, transaction. The transactions were a part of the agreement. There had always been a direct deposit from an employer. This month was different. A direct deposit was not existent because John had retired and the first social security direct deposit was accompanied by a one month delay.
The initial reaction was one of anger. The feeling was directed at himself. John wondered, "How can I afford to make such mistakes? He kept a sizable amount in his checking account to take advantage. It was difficult in a suffering economy to earn interest." He suddenly realized he was obsessed with money. It was crazy.
John experienced an enlightenment. The term, ownership, is misleading. One enters into the world with no possessions, not even clothes. The exit from mortality is similar. People are simply conduits. The roles of "source" and "consumer" do not technically exist. "Ashes to ashes and dust to dust" has been taught through the ages. Everything is derived from everything else. John needed to immediately change his perspective on money in order to open the channel.
A feeling of contentment began to fill the innermost being. The amount of money lost in one transaction was restored from an unexpected event. There were actually several events. The money was more than restored. The air conditioning to the house had been off for five days with the unexpected arrival of an August cold front. This one event saved more than the amount lost. Four separate calls for his professional expertise were received and acted upon. His perspective had changed. Many blessings previously overlooked were now obvious. Stewardship was now being practiced. John benefited. Others along the conduit received benefit from the outward flow as it passed through John.
There was more to this enlightenment than the financial aspect. Knowledge, love, service and benevolence were also passing through the conduit. The more John was able to allow himself to be a part of the flow, the more he benefited and the more others were benefited. The one question remaining was, "what was his responsibility?"
Control was often out of his hands. Active participation was still required to direct the flow of blessings. John's inattentiveness cost interest money. His action to turn off the air conditioner saved money. His marketing strategy brought new business. John immediately made an active decision. He would stay busy participating in life. The result may not be immediately recognizable, but life will be a blessing as he practices living.
About this Author
I would love to hear from others with similar experience. How may I be of service to you? Please find out more about my skill set at http://www.atekmo.com
© August 27, 2010, Michael D. Miller, U.S.A
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