$ or R or ..... Life?

Life is always better with money! Is this true - I would say at best that life always seems better with money! But the notes and dividends and shares themselves, do not bring the happiness.  Those that have much are able to portray happiness and give the distinct impression that all is well and within their grasp. But this may be an illusion of reality, because money is such an enticing and controlling commodity. I once had a client that said to me that money was like a flowing river and one could dip into it whenever we wanted to and take what was needed for that occasion or moment. But is this true or only if you have already got a "mint" in the river.  I cannot think that money is meant to be merely available at any turn.  I surely feel naively that it must be earned by hard work and that it takes time to accomplish financial success, or freedom.  But I do know for sure that life is more than the concept of money and wealth.  There are friends and family and work and hobbies and so many elements to life worth far more than money.  Perhaps if anything I have learnt that while we should take it seriously and be responsible for what we have been blessed with, more good will come from our lives when we stop chasing the greenbacks and are filled with acceptance of where our lives are in this moment and what we can do to accomplish the purposes and gifts we have been given.  I hope to be a man grateful for what I have and not one who is running after the $$$$ at all cost.