First, let's acknowledge that we live in a society that uses money as the ultimate measuring stick. We form opinions from our perceptions of those who live in mansions, drive Jaguars, sip wine with names we can't pronounce and price tags we can't afford.
We admire the guy who wears Armani suits, a different one each day. We envy the self-made millionaire, even though it's folly to think that he did it by himself. We gaze admiringly at the woman who has her hair done by someone who goes by a first name only. Whether it's quaffed by George or Ernst or Shanteel, after the appropriate product is applied, it will look magnificent. Oh, maybe a little goofy ... but ooh-la-la magnifico! That bird's nest was built by Girard!
Jealous, who us?
Of course we are. Who wouldn't want manicured nails every afternoon before caviar and cocktails? We've all heard it said, "I've been poor and I've been rich, and let me tell you, rich is a whole lot better." Well, duh. Most of us have been poor and a whole lot poorer -- and the former sure beats the latter by at least a couple of bucks.
And what about those pro athletes with their multimillion-dollar, five-year contracts or those technology moguls worth billions?
Hey, we're human. Does Tom long for a yacht? Ahoy, matey! Would Bill prefer a Rolex, one for each wrist? (If you already have one, Bill, don't tell Tom.)
If you've ever spent time with the homeless in this country, the working poor, or the middle class family that is struggling to put food on the table, then you know the answer to the question: Is rich better than poor? You bet your bullion.
Dad, you are probably just as human as the rest of us. You would much rather bask in opulence than wonder how to pay another overdue bill. You would prefer that sports car of your dreams to that nightmare in your garage that coughs and chugs its way to your job every day. No doubt you would love to have stacks of Ben Franklins at your fingertips to provide the best of the best for your family -- your wife, kids, dog and hamster.
But if that's true, dad, just keep it to yourself.
Sure, there's nothing wrong with wishing and dreaming, but we suggest you keep one foot grounded in reality and provide the best gift of all for your family -- your love. It's priceless.
Bring flowers home to your wife. Take your kids to a matinee and spring for the popcorn. Sit on a rock with your son and tell him your stories and listen to his. Ride bikes with your daughter and tell her how pretty she is and how proud of her you are. Talk to the dog a lot. Pet the hamster (but stay away from those teeth).
Spend all the time you can with those who will appreciate it the most. Invest in your family. If you do, you will be providing the best of the best. Understand that and you will become the richest guy you know and a model of wealth for your children.
Tom Tozer and Bill Black are authors of "Dads2Dads: Tools for Raising Teenagers." Like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter at Dads2Dadsllc.com. They are available for workshops. Contact them at tomandbill@Dads2Dadsllc.com.