Two magical things: Money, books.
The advantage of having money is that others seldom make things difficult for you. The advantage of reading is that you won't make things difficult for yourself.
These two things, one facing outward and the other inward, build up the moat that safeguards our existence and sustenance.
I. Regarding Money：
The majority of the major problems in ordinary people's lives are actually inseparable from the word "money".
If a child is ill and needs to be hospitalized, as long as there is enough money in hand, one can directly choose the best doctor without having to groan and sigh over the bill.
If a child is ill and needs to be hospitalized, as long as they have enough money, they can directly choose the best doctor without having to groan and sigh over the bill; they won't have to worry about missing the treatment opportunity.
When parents get old and want to change to a house with an elevator, as long as they have enough savings, they can choose the layout they like with peace of mind.
This doesn't mean that money can buy everything. Instead, money can help you turn the "have to " in life into "can choose".
In ancient times, a minister named Fan Li helped the king conquer the land. After that, he gave up his official position and turned to business. He accumulated a great deal of wealth three times, and each time he spent it all, yet he always managed to become rich again.
Some people say he is good at doing business. But what's more important is that he understands the essence of money:
Money is a tool for solving problems, not the end goal.
Just like an umbrella in a rainy day, those who have the umbrella don't have to run around in a panic. They can walk slowly and even help others to shelter from the rain.
You have money in your hand, and naturally others will treat you differently.
It's not because they are trying to curry favor with you, but because you don't need to bother others or worry about their opinions.
This sense of confidence will itself reduce many unnecessary obstacles.
II. Regarding the Book：
If money addresses "external threats", then books address "internal troubles".
The greatest pain of a person often does not come from the outside world, but stems from inner conflicts, confusion, hardship and unwillingness.
Books are precisely the weapon to combat this kind of "internal threat".
For instance, a friend once said that although he worked very hard at his job, he always felt as if there was a heavy weight pressing on his heart.
Even a casual comment from others would take him a long time to process.
I asked him how long it had been since he had read a good book. He said he was so busy that he didn't even have time to flip through a book.
In fact, the benefit of reading lies precisely in helping you remove the burden from your mind.
The principles in the book are not meant to be memorized. They are designed to help you build a cognitive framework, so that when you encounter problems, you can reconcile with yourself and avoid getting stuck in a dead end.
By reading more books, you can broaden your horizons and no longer get stuck in the midst of the unpleasant things you encounter.
You will be more open-minded when dealing with problems and won't get stuck in a stubborn way.
Bacon said, "Reading history makes one wise."
This "wisdom" largely lies in breaking free from attachments and viewing fluctuations with equanimity.
Reading philosophical books can broaden your perspective and fill you with wisdom...
The sages used their profound thoughts to illuminate the dark corners of your heart.
When you are tormented by desires and disturbed by the concerns of gain and loss, philosophy can help you find that "anchor point".
It helps you understand what you truly desire and what is worth holding on to.
It bestows upon you an inner composure.
The greatest benefit of reading is that it enables you to "not fight against yourself".
When you are stuck in a state of confusion, reading a book often brings about a sudden realization and clarity.
"Oh, it turns out that the problem lies in the fact that I viewed things from an incorrect perspective, or I was thinking abstractly without considering the actual circumstances."
III、 It is necessary to combine them into one.
Money and books have never been in opposition to each other.
- Just having money won't do; it won't fill the emptiness in your heart.
- Just studying won't suffice; it won't fill your stomach either.
The practical ability to acquire resources and solve problems cannot be achieved without the convenience and confidence provided by money.
When these two aspects are combined, it will enable you to handle the material aspects with ease while remaining calm and composed in the spiritual realm.
What is the most worthy pursuit in one's lifetime?
Earn money in a down-to-earth manner and study quietly.
When you have money in your hand and knowledge in your mind, you will find that life is not so complicated after all.