I have often seen people retreat into fear or
anger at the mere suggestion that perhaps they had issues with money
they might want to examine. Everyone feels vulnerable when it comes to
money. That we are fearful or get triggered around it is not too surprising when we
consider that we have not been given the proper training or education about money or personal financial matters. We have no training in the one thing that our
culture collectively seems to value the most! No wonder we respond in anger. We
have been told we need to go out and earn money, save and invest, but have not been given the
tools we need to do so.

Money issues are among the leading causes of divorce and suicide.
What does that say about us? Money affects every aspect of our lives,
and yet we know very little about our personal relationship to it. Isn’t it time we began to do money differently?

As we become more aware of our own money patterns and behaviors, we can begin to make new, healthier choices. This would be a great first step toward creating a new financial legacy for ourselves and our children, one
built on knowledge and power instead of fear, mistrust or dependence. But first
we must each step back, evaluate and redefine our relationship with money and its
meaning in our lives.

What is money and what does it really mean to you? From my personal point of view, money is a powerful energy force and medium of exchange. It is a tool and resource that I receive as a direct result of the actions and contributions that I put forth in the world. It flows in and out of my life in direct relationship to my efforts and intentions. 

What does money mean to you? I’d love to hear your comments.

Here’s a prayer for today.

Receive, O Lord, all my liberty.
Take my memory, my understanding, and my entire will.
Whatsoever I have or hold, You have given me;
I give it all back to You and surrender it
wholly to be governed by your will.
Give me only your love and your grace,
with these I will be rich enough,
and ask for nothing more.
 
 ~St. Ignatius Loyola – 16th Century