Why is money so important?

When I start to write for my column, I try to focus on matters of consequence.

When I write for myself, I find myself wrapped up in the actual matters of consequence.

Some people tend to get their priorities out of order, especially when speaking in general terms. As a society today, we tend to exult certain aspects of life, such as politics, property and success. What concerns me is that all of these common priorities are related to money.

Consider art, for example. I firmly believe it is important, if not necessary, to create one’s own original expressions. Whatever it is, a person ought to be creating something that represents who they are, and what they believe in, even if it is strictly for their own benefit.

However, the world we live in hardly commends art if it fails to be validated by recognition and money.

Similarly, the popularity of most art in our pop-culture is determined based on the revenue it generates. If a mainstream artist such as Lil’ Wayne has sold the most records, does that mean he is the most talented musician? I hope not.

Our culture today is motivated by money, and likewise by greed. The problem with this is that it creates an imbalance in our everyday life.

People need motivation, and our society does not particularly motivate people to create art — or follow dreams — if they cannot get paid for it. This results in people who may be financially stable, yet still unhappy.

This dilemma is a great concern for our nation’s politics, as well. For example, our presidential candidates these days seem to be buying an election as much as they are running in one.

Wouldn’t we all like to elect a president who will do what it takes to make more people happier? Is this even possible, when it seems happiness is almost exclusively for sale, especially when alleviating one grievance tends to bring forth two more.

Furthermore, the people with the money call the shots. Thus one thing remains: the rich get richer.

Another problem with a money-oriented culture is that, to a certain extent, greed is unintentionally rewarded. Of course, the Bernie Madoffs in our country are punished, unless they get away with it. But usually, those with the fattest wallets are the people who are willing to do what it takes to put money in their pockets.

To cite Al Lewis in a recent column, "Time To Pay Up, Chump," "… 26 of America’s biggest companies paid no federal income tax between 2008 and 2011." Further, "These big, profitable corporations are continuing to shift their tax burden onto average Americans."

So while the majority of people feel morally obliged to pay their taxes, the richest minority are often those who do not feel morally obligated to fund the commonwealth.

So why is money so important? Do you need a mansion or a fancy car to sing a song or draw a picture? Ask yourself this the next time you re-examine your priorities.