A Global Perspective

It’s always dangerous to assume that statistics tell the whole story, but sometimes the raw data can provide an amazing perspective.  Several years ago here in the United States, a protest group  was organized to express opposition against the wealthiest one percent here in the U.S.  This movement became known as Occupy Wall Street.  For several months, these protestors camped out and marched in the financial district of New York City.  Then, as the media spotlight faded and cold weather approached, the number of protestors dwindled down and eventually disappeared.  I have always believed that with wealth comes responsibility; but when handled properly, money is a tool that can be used for good as well as evil.  In the hands of good people, wealth can change the world. 

 Whether or not you feel there is something wrong with those of us who are in the one percent of income earners or wealth-holders, it’s important to take a few steps back and get a global perspective.  I realize people literally around the world read these weekly Winners’ Wisdom columns in newspapers, magazines, and on-line publications, but for a moment I want to put myself and my fellow Americans under the statistical spotlight.

 According to 2018 statistics, if you earn slightly over $30,000 per year, you are in the one percent of wage-earners worldwide.  I can almost hear my readers all across the United States gasping in stunned shock.  Here in America, a top one percent global income can actually put a family below the government’s established poverty level.  In global terms, most of the Occupy Wall Street protestors were themselves one percent income earners.

 With the rise of the digital connectivity we all enjoy, both personally as well as professionally, and with the ease and relative affordability of international travel, the earth is growing smaller in practical terms.  The days of living in blissful isolation are rapidly drawing to a close.  All of us need to consider the wealth we have and how we utilize it.  The age-old question, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” comes into play.  I’ve always believed that a portion of every dollar you earn should be spent on your immediate needs, a portion should be saved and invested for your future, and a portion should be given to help others.

 I’m sure that many Americans who have read or heard me state the above have thought they would become a generous giver someday when they become wealthy. When we look at the numbers, many of my readers have just gone from the poverty level to the top one percent.  If you can make this shift in your mind, you can begin looking at your money as a tool to benefit you and your family now as well as in the future and as a tool to benefit others around the world.  I remain convinced that we should earn all we can, enjoy all we can, and give all we can.  

 As you go through your day today, understand your place in the world and act accordingly.

Today’s the day!