The era of earning more money to buy more “stuff” is over.

Gordon Clay here. It’s easy to sit around a feel sorry for ourselves. Yes, we were promised a better life and yes, we feel entitled to more. But, let’s face it, the party’s over. We’re not the only ones who are hurting. Believe me, there are many others out there who are suffering. No matter what your situation, there is a lot you can do to help.

We have longed based our identity on material success. But the era of earning more money to buy more “stuff” is over. We don’t have to have stuff in order to be a success. Some of the most incredible people who have ever lived shared their gifts with others and had little material wealth to show for it.

Mahatma Gandhi died possessing only a pair of sandals, a robe, a staff, a spinning wheel, his spectacles, and a prayer book. Yet, he helped millions.

Mozart was buried in an unmarked pauper’s grave. His music has touched the hearts of the world.

Confucius was a failure as a bread-winner and was dependent on his small band of disciples for his sustenance. His philosophy has lasted thousands of years.

Rembrandt ended his life in austerity, as did Beethoven, Bach, and Van Gogh. Jesus died leaving only a robe for which the Roman soldiers cast lots.

This is a great time to be alive. The economy may be going through a difficult time, but there’s still a lot that needs to be done. Find something you can do. Find someone you can help. Opportunities surround us.

As Albert Schweitzer said , “Wherever a man turns he can find someone who needs him.”