Shades of success

To many success revolves around having a lot of money in a bank and in assets that guarantee consistent cash flow. That way they can afford living in their dream houses, driving their dream cars, piloting their private jets or cruising in their own yachts, travelling the world, taking their children to prestigious schools, and so fourth. To some of these people it doesn't matter how their money is accumulated; all that matters to them is having more than enough to afford their dream lifestyles and leave a huge inheritance to their children and children's children.

 To others success is not so much about having stashes and stashes of money in foreign banks as it is about helping the needy. People behind most charity organisations channel all their energies in giving a chance to the suffering lot. The Rotarians, Red Cross and World Vision people and those running orphanages draw their meaning out of touching lives and dispelling darkness with the light of love. Mother Teresa remains a huge inspiration to these people. 

Then there are those to whom success is all about scaling academic heights, making new inventions, discovering the cure for HIV/Aids for example, exploring uncharted territories, breaking records in sports; being inducted in various Halls of Fame or entering the Guinness Book of Records.  These are the curious lot and they work pretty hard to set new precedence; for that's what makes them feel useful and successful.

Finally some measure success in terms of their religious beliefs and dispensations. To them nothing else matters except living a life that is pleasing to their Creator. Such people are morally disciplined, and though some fall by the wayside others rise up with greater determination every time they fall. Like Jesus telling His disciples not to be happy because the demons heed their commands, but to be happy only because their names are written in the book of life, these people seek success that is eternal; their words, thoughts and deeds are meant to have them ushered in Heaven when they finally give up their ghosts.

What is success to you?