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Are You Saving the Good China for Company?

Posted By: Randy GageFebruary 22, 2010

We’ve been looking at lot lately about money and material things and their role in prosperity.  Some of you have inferred that acquiring things is materialistic or about making statements.  I will plead guilty as charged.  

When we get anything, it does make a statement.  The car you drive, how you dress, decorate your home, and even what type of eyeglasses you wear – all make a statement about you.

When I buy a car, I do want it to make a statement.  My cars are a reflection of my personality.  They go fast, turn heads and cost a lot.  Just like me!

Ok, I’m being a little cheeky.  Ok, very cheeky.

But aren’t the things we all buy an extension of us?  When you see my car, look at what I wear, or you see how my home is decorated, you have a very good idea of who I am.

That doesn’t mean I am defined by my possessions.  It means they are defined by me. I like simple elegance, not “busyness,” so I’m attracted to clean, classic lines, whether it’s suits, cars, or furniture.

I think we all feel this way.  But most people don’t practice this…

They save the good china for company, put plastic covers on the new furniture, and only break out the fine wine to impress someone else.  I buy the nice stuff for me!

Now don’t get me wrong.  I want to share it with the people that are special in my life.  But I don’t need company to justify buying the best.

You could say a car only takes you from point A to point B.  But I want an automobile that excites me every time I drive it.  I want hand made leather shoes, not plastic ones.  I want beautiful art in my home not velvet paintings of dogs playing poker. I want to eat delicious, fresh prepared foods, not what there are coupons for.  I want a stereo system that captures the nuances of Maria Callas, and rattles the fucking rafters with Guns N’ Roses.

And because these things bring joy to my life, I buy them.  Perhaps you think I’m arrogant, obnoxious, and ostentatious.  Perhaps you think the money and material things are about making a social statement.  They are.  And here is the statement:

“Poverty is a sin.  You were born to be rich.  I’ve accepted this, appreciate the finer things in life, and hope my example inspires you to do the same thing.”

What about you?

Do you think you were born to be rich or believe it’s spiritual to be poor?  Do you feel a little guilty just entertaining the thought of becoming really rich? Do you give yourself the finer things, or save them for company?  Please give that some thought and check in below.

-RG

55 comments on “Are You Saving the Good China for Company?”

  1. Randy, I have never believed in 'company China', etc. I always figured my family and friends deserve to be eating from my best dinnerware as much as anyone else. Will some of it get broken? Sure. So what...why own two sets of dinnerware? That in itself is spending on the unnecessary things in life.

    Plastic over the furniture? Never! Anything within the walls of my home has always been there to be used and fully enjoyed by all who live there or come to visit! Will never forget the 'memory marks' on the dining table, created by her boys, that my Grandmom treasured long after the boys grew up and left home. She flatly refused all suggestions that she have that table refinished to remove those marks.

    Keep shinin'

    DJ

  2. Leo Buscaglia (http://www.buscaglia.com/) had a great story in one of his speeches (can be seen on YouTube).

    "What are you saving the good dishes for? To leave to your children? I have news for you, your children don't like it!! Take a piece and throw it against the wall. Show it who's boss. Then use them everyday!"

    I am probably not 100% accurate in my quote as I am going from memory.

    As for me, I only have one set of dishes. One I like and use every day, with everyone. I did make sure I had 12 of everything for when I entertain 🙂

  3. Randy,

    You've done it again, hitting the nail on the head...HARD! I use to think that elegant things were used for company; until a little ole lady told me different. She said, "Baby, YOU are your own best company!" She said that she wears her best gowns to bed (in case the good lord takes her home and she would be dressed nicely! lol) What a woman & she was wearing her best diamond jewelry (that you would find in the top jewelry stores!) when I met her!! I was floored! Now, where I live, I use my roommate's china and crystal (his grandma left him...rarely used! ;-( ). I put candles on the dining table and use cloth napkins whenever I can. I even wear my best lingerie all the time! (oops TMI).

    Once I be on my own, you best believe that ONLY the best will do. I like the statement you made about having a stereo system that will do the job ( I LOVE Bose!). I am sooo glad to know that there are others who feel like I feel about simple elegance and fine taste. I was teased for being boogee (siddity...a term meaning uppity). I just love the feel of opulence and being surrounded by nice things because my spirit is at peace.

    Do your thing Randy and keep reminding us of who we are...Adult Children of a KING!

  4. Poverty is a sin ... we've been looking at life all wrong and I agree with you Randy. If we really want something we just go get it. Working for other people dumbs us down so much that we have convinced ourselves that the finer things in life are for THEM. I agree with you that whether its the beat up clunker or the 2011 Benz convertible ... YOU bought the car so that defines who you are! You might be that person that DOES NOT CARE what they drive or you might be the person that does ... People start calling others names like "materialistic" and "stuck up" et al because of their ridiculous notion to blame others for their lack of productivity towards their dreams. Most of us have dreams but just won't follow the rules to get them. It's easier to pick up a paycheck that someone GIVES you at the end of two weeks than to go through the PAIN of finding a way to give others more value so you get paid what you really want. We all know this and that is why they call you "materialistic". Stay that way ... I'm on my way too bro 🙂

  5. My parents used to say that "it is better to give than to receive" which meant it was OK to give to others rather than give yourself. The china was used only for special occasions (and every day there were fewer special occasions). The money will be saved for use in case of illness or injury (not to enjoy it). The fine clothing was used only in special situations (for which lasted a long time without use). Spending money on something to make you feel good (travel, clothing, food, art, jewelry, fun) was considered a waste. These misconceptions made me live a life of scarcity in many areas. So I thank Randy, because he is helping us to be aware of those misconceptions we grew up with, confront and change them for the better.

  6. Great post Randy. I truly agree that our material items are a statement about us. I will never forget a professor that I had at Georgia Tech, everyday in class he was dressed to the tee in a great suit and a nice pair of shoes not like most of my professors. However, he did run a very sucessful construction management company in Atlanta as well as teach at Tech. I determined that quarter that when I got out of college that I would dress nice and drive nice cars because in my opinion, people want to do business with folks that look like they know where they are going and how to get there. Granted I have lost some of that lifestyle, I am well on may way back to having and portraying that image again.

  7. Aho! Randy - totally agree.

    I've got to 50 and still have to fight the impulse to "save for best". If we are truly living in the present moment then we will ensure that we are doing what gives us pleasure all the time not just some of the time.

    So it's good lingerie every day, wearing my favourite clothes every day and I've already picked out my new car. My this is such fun!

  8. Excellent post Randy.
    I believe 1000% that we all deserve prosperity and abundance in our lives. We were created in the image of God. There is no other option. Why people choose to believe that they need to live in poverty to be spiritual hits hard in my heart. They are missing out on so much of life. There is infinite abundance waiting for everyone to come and get their piece of it. The things on the outside are totally reflective of what is truly going on inside of us. It is our God given purpose and mission to live in his abundance and prosperity and anything else would be a disappointment to Him who created us! Thanks again for sharing this with us Randy.
    Make it a great day!
    God Bless,
    -ed

  9. Love your sutely, you got it right on-we need to be the best we can be and we can do what ever we want as long as we don't break laws,harm others, and enjoy the most that is available to us

  10. That doesn’t mean I am defined by my possessions.

    That says it all for me. Most Americans live their lives trying to impress someone don't like and living in debt.

  11. Fuck Randy, you got me all fired up here!!

    I've said this before and I'll say it again: All goals are spiritual goals. Even "materialistic" goals are spiritual. Why?

    Because everything that is manifested comes from the same source - the infinite energy field of potential and possibility (the Zero Point Field). So the Viper you drive is just as spiritual as the bond you feel when you are deeply connected with someone. (Because where did that someone originate from? You got it...)

    As someone close to me once said "the feeling you get when you drive a Viper IS a fucking a spiritual experience!"

    I for one, look forward to enjoying THAT particular spiritual experience!

    Randy, you knock my socks off!!! Woo!!

  12. The late Rev. Ike stated ''that it was better to have a surplus instead of a shortage." He quoted from the book of Luke: "...for it is your father's good pleasure to give you the Kingdom."

    Mediocrity will NO longer support who I AM.

    I choose quality instead of inferiority.

    Thank you Randy!

  13. I also use my best everyday.

    I have realized that some people think this "prosperity" stuff is new age (like some churches). I guess I always was open to looking at "new age" stuff. I found a book "How to Reach Your Full Potential for God...Never Settle for Less than His Best" by Charles F. Stanley who is a senior pastor at a Baptist Church. He says: "Step out in Faith. Trust the biblical promises and principles found in these pages. Embrace the passion and purpose that spring from a relationship with the God who made and loves you."

  14. So before I say anything Jesus was poor you saying he sinned cuz of that I don't believe it's a sin as long as you try to do something have faith don't give up also not everyone wants a Benz necessarily or the crystal vase or china. Unless you want that fine but I do think you should spoil yourself if not who else will lol so I agree work hard play hard have fun and enjoy your self while here

  15. I confused, are you saying my collection of velvet paintings is wrong 🙂

    I have always thought that if you could afford it, buy it, if you want it. That is not to say you should rack up your credit cards. Being able to afford something luxurious means everything else is taken care of.

    Back in January I got bumped to Business Class for a trip to Thailand and Singapore. I got to feel what it was like to fly in luxury.

    I was born to be rich, and good looking (gotta work on both of those)

  16. oh, looooooooove this post!!! Every saturday (shabbos) we break out the real china, real silver, actual real napkins. I ALWAYS tell my two beautiful children, that they deserve this just cause they are human beings breathing in G-ds wonderful air!!! They laugh when I say that but hopefully, the message hits home.

  17. if i have to dust my dishes, i give them away. BUT, when I put my favourite dishes in front of guests- wow- do they ever get uncomfortable!! Someone I know refers to them as my Hyacinth Bucket dishes. But I like them. And they are the ones I use. Even for my kids.

  18. While I understand and appreciate your wording, I do not think we are born TO BE anything - other than what we (already) ARE (even if not yet developed). If everything we think, say, do, wear, buy, and choose, says something about us, then the perceived significance of any statement(s) made should matter more to ourselves than how they may (or may not) be interpreted by anyone else. The original meaning of a sin was simply to (be off course and) miss the mark. One of the first attributes of those who are "rich" is to focus more on what they have rather than what they do not. Appreciation means to increase in value. The major "sin" of poverty is the focus on scarcity and lack rather than opportunities, abundance, and appreciation. Material (and other) "results" tend to reflect more where people are "coming from" (in their attitudes, actions, associations, self-image, or subconscious beliefs - especially about what is "acceptable") than much else. I don't think of being (or becoming) "rich" as a destination - but as a realization.

  19. Randy...all those things are great on time and space,they are low vibrational frequency energy and they bring momentum, pleasure and egoistic energy, but when the engines are off, the lights are down and the music is over and we are alone within us,, what??????, none of those toys will give us joy and love...

  20. Well this is consistent with what Wally Wattles says in "Science of Getting Rich".. The best thing we can do for the poor is not to be on to be one of them. And being rich in the company of poor people is an inspiration, rather than flaunting. It's a statement about the infinite abundance that surrounds us.

    Personally I don't care for Vipers :). My choice is an Aston Martin Vantage V8 or a Porsche Turbo..But the beauty of the Universe is that there are SO many choices with one or more to fit us all!

    Here's the question though: If you have not yet reached the level of income you KNOW is available, do you drive the car that's way beyond your reach, wear the clothes that are far more than you can afford, etc because it's a reflection of your personality?

  21. I have a Vantage as well and it's a magnificent automobile. In answer to your question, there's nothing prosperous about getting things like this on credit. You get the best you can with the income you have and work on manifesting a higher income.

    -RG

  22. Fortunately Randy has been blessed with excellent critical reasonning. The things you own are defined by you - there is no truer statement than this. If everyone bought a car based on utilitarian principles we'd all be driving VW beetles - without the automatic transmission option. As human beings, we all want our comfort and happiness, and should provide for ourselves the best we can afford - and use it too! We should also too have enough money put away for our own security as well. In Canada at least, we don't have to worry about health care, but the rest of our comfort and security is up to us! Once again Randy, you make perfect sense.

  23. I was born into poverty, but always felt I will be rich one day. I have no guilt, not even a tiny itty bitty bit when I think of becoming rich. I save nothing just for simply entertaining company. What I buy is for me to enjoy, not to be saved to one day show off to company.

    When I do become rich I will say I want to be richer. I want it all!

    Jamie 😉

  24. Poverty is not spiritual. That excuse is a cop-out for people who didn't achieve the financial success to which they aspire. It is the focus on spiritual matters, and spiritual behavior, that are spiritual.

    Yocheved Golani

  25. Another excellent post Randy. It seems in this world that constantly bombards us with how we are supposed to be poor and yet bemoan the fact we "don't have enough" and how terrible it is that we "don't have enough" that we have to get a good "in your face" nudge that that is all so much junk talk! It is ok to be prosperous, and for those that feel connected to the Bible, well re-read it and see how those that pleased God in the OT were blessed with much prosperity. Where did the idea that being poor was so much holier?

    I don't know, but I'm not buying into that any longer either and you have been one of the prominent, contemporary mentors that have helped to "shake up" the old, non-serving thoughts. Thanks for always being on target and saying it the way it is.

  26. agree whole heartedly... if one has to buy on credit its not prosperous, its ridiculous... a rule i started to live by when i was just starting out in sales. if i wanted that new 700 series, i set a goal to earn the cash, not just the cash, but rather 3 times the amount before i would allow myself to buy it. this way i experienced abundance even after the purchase was made. and i felt much better about it, because i not only owned the car outright, i also had double that amount in a "car fund" savings account, as well as my regular savings and checking accounts were busting at the seams as well.

    i noticed an amazing thing. if i set the goal of acquiring the car by a certain date, i got the car and the extra cash in half the time by shooting past the goal, allowing my mind to be open to how the money was to come to me, not just by my current employment but also open to other opportunities along the way.

    about getting the best you can on the income you have.

    when i first started out, broke, 20 years old, just out of the hospital still in massive amounts of pain, i took what little money i had in my pocket and got the best apartment i could afford at the time. it was empty so as i earned i purchased, not what i needed to get by, but what i wanted to ensure i was surrounded by luxury (the luxury i could afford at the time) every evening i ate in style, with one set of fine silverware, one set of fine plate ware, one comfortable expensive chair that matched my expensive table. nothing on credit. as time went on i purchased a second chair, and second sent of dishes, and second set of silverware and furnished my whole apartment this way in less than 6 months i was completely surrounded in luxury. when i moved into the condo i paid for cash, i at that time had the best i could afford at the time without breaking the bank.

    i didn't do it for the neighbors, or for the girls, or for business clients, i did it for me, as a constant reminder of living my life to the fullest and rewarding myself daily for a job well done.

  27. i'm in southeast asia and haven't stepped foot in my luxury cars, or my luxury home back in the states for over three years and i gotta tell ya, the "vibrational frequency" of these things still brings me joy half way around the world.

  28. that reminds me of a joke....

    A burglar broke into a home and was looking around. He heard a soft voice say, "Jesus is watching you". Thinking it was just his imagination, he continued his search. Again the voice said "Jesus is watching you". He turned his flashlight around and saw a parrot in a cage.

    He asked the parrot if he was the one talking and the parrot said, "yes."

    He asked the parrot what his name was and the parrot said, "Moses."

    The burglar asked, "what kind of people would name a parrot Moses?"

    The parrot said, "the same kind of people who would name their pit bull Jesus".

  29. oh, man... now you got me started.... lol

    A Sunday School teacher of preschoolers told her students that she wanted each of them to have learned one fact about Jesus by the next Sunday. The following week she asked each child in turn what he or she had learned.

    Susie said, "He was born in a manger."

    Bobby said, "He threw the money changers out of the temple."

    Little Johnny said, "He has a red pickup truck but he doesn't know how to drive it."

    Curious, the teacher asked, "And where did you learn that, Johnny?"

    "From my Daddy," said Johnny. "Yesterday we were driving down the highway, and this red pickup truck pulled out in front of us and Daddy yelled at him, 'Jesus Christ! Why don't you learn how to drive?'"

  30. i've been striving for the good looking for years now also... let me know if you come up with something... business class to singapore and thailand is comfortable yes... yes... yes... i always chuckle when the staff announce on the intercom no one from coach is allowed to use the lavatory in business class hehehe.... another benefit is that there's almost no one else in business class when i fly so i have the section to myself.. lol....

  31. randy is not only blessed with abundance, he also has perfect cuticles. :o) i still get a cuckle from that.... gotta love it.... my cuticles suck by the way.... :o(

  32. OMG i can't stop....

    The Pope arrives in heaven, where St. Peter awaites him. St. Peter asks who he is.

    The Pope: "I am the pope."

    St. Peter: "Who? There's no such name in my book."

    The Pope: "I'm the representative of God on Earth."

    St.Peter: "Does God have a representative? He didn't tell me ..."

    The Pope: "But I am the leader of the Catholic Church ..."

    St. Peter: "The Catholic church ... Never heard of it ... Wait, I'll check with the boss."

    St. Peter walks away through Heaven's Gate to talk with God.

    St. Peter: "There's a dude standing outside who claims he's your representative on earth."

    God: "I don't have a representative on earth, not that I know of ... Wait, I'll ask Jesus." (yells for Jesus)

    Jesus: "Yes father, what's up?"

    God and St. Peter explain the situation.

    Jesus: "Wait, I'll go outside and have a little chat with that fellow."

    Ten minutes pass and Jesus reenters the room laughing out loud. After a few minutes St. Peter asks Jesus why he's laughing.

    Jesus: "Remember that fishing club I've started 2000 years ago? It still exists!"

  33. i promise this is the last one....

    Most people assume WWJD is for “What would Jesus do?” But the initials really stand
    for “What would Jesus drive?”

    One theory is that Jesus would tool around in an old Plymouth because “the Bible says God drove Adam and Eve out of the Garden of Eden in a Fury.”

    But in Psalm 83, the Almighty clearly owns a Pontiac and a Geo. The passage urges the
    Lord to “pursue your enemies with your Tempest and terrify them with your Storm.”

    Perhaps God favors Dodge pickup trucks, because Moses' followers are warned not to go up a mountain “until the Ram's horn sounds a long blast.”

    Some scholars insist that Jesus drove a Honda but didn't like to talk about it. As proof, they cite a verse in St. John's
    gospel where Christ tells the crowd, “For I did not speak of my own Accord.”

    Meanwhile, Moses rode an old British motorcycle, as evidenced by a Bible passage
    declaring, “the roar of Moses' Triumph is heard in the hills.”

    Joshua drove a Triumph sports car with a hole in its muffler: “Joshua's Triumph was
    heard throughout the land.” And, following the Master's lead, the Apostles car-pooled in a Honda: “The Apostles were in one Accord.”

  34. Randy,

    You Rock !! Learning and bettering ouselves is why God has put us here. Arrogance, to me, is thinking God wants us to live in Sheds. That is Ignorant ! Live Life, Love Life, and Be Filled with LIfe and Joy.

    Thank You Randy,
    Ed

  35. An interesting post, Randy and an intriguing conversation, all. I'm still of two minds, tho' I think Oren said it best: "One of the first attributes of those who are “rich” is to focus more on what they have rather than what they do not. ... The major “sin” of poverty is the focus on scarcity and lack rather than opportunities, abundance, and appreciation."

    I think it can be hard to counter the FEAR that when I do have wealth I'll be like "those people", with the FAITH that God's will won't take me where His grace won't protect me.

    Anyone else challenged by this?

  36. "That doesn’t mean I am defined by my possessions. It means they are defined by me. " Randy, I love it!

    Five years ago, when I went shopping for new dishes I bought china with gold trim.

    The Corelle comes in handy for the microwave- no zaps or superhot sections. Also good for eating around the pool (avoiding anything that would shatter and cause a safety issue for bare feet.)

    I also took lessons from my mother in law: use the best china every day and wash it in the dishwasher. Why have something beautiful that you're not using?

    I wear my precious jewelry whenever and with whatever I please. Imagine wearing an opera length strand of matched rose pearls paired with a Doobie Brothers Tshirt to the hardware store.

    When feeling bored I have been known to don a formal gown and go grocery shopping. The fun is to act like this is normal and see if anyone asks me why I'm dressed up.

    Giving large amounts anonymously can be fun, especially when I know and associate with the receivers. It's fun to witness their joy in receiving and play along about not knowing the source.

    I have a blast paying the toll fees of 5 or more cars in line behind me. It's a tradition on the Golden Gate Bridge and that was the first place I experienced receiving that generosity- literally when I did not have the money to pay. It's a little more confusing to the toll booth operators on the Chicago Turnpike or the turnpike near Cleveland, but they catch on quickly.

    All of these have helped lessen the "poor is spiritual" message I received as a child.

  37. One can afford "luxuries" if one knows where to look. I put "luxuries" in quotes to point out that the mindless use of the word can signal a "this is beyond my means" thought pattern.

    I too agree that using credit cards to "keep up with the Joneses" is a mistake. Do you really like what items they own, or are you simply in competition with them?

    Then again, do the best with what you have: buy the best quality you can afford of what you LIKE, take care of it, and keep growing your money streams so you can have more!

    Some sources for the budding wealth magnet: Consignment stores for designer clothes and formal wear, pawn shops for jewelry, factory outlet stores for Bose systems, stores selling the "End Of Season" fashion you've had your eye on. Cars: Directly from the dealer. Learn to negotiate.

    The pristine china came from a consignment store, the three section mahogany desk from a company's moving sale, the pearls were a gift from Fiance Number One-And-One-Half (that's another story). There also are things I will buy as soon as they come on the rack: business wear with sleeves long enough for my arms!

    My suggestion: buy it because YOU like it! And as you're building your fortune, find a source that provides it at the price you're willing to pay.

  38. Iam a beloved child of the Most High God in Christ Jesus therefore I deserve riches, ought to be...
    I like the best things for my life, the ideas.. only the best...

    Gene

  39. Have you ever read Catherine Ponder?? She has a series of books all about prosperity. One of the books she wrote: The Millionaire of Nazareth. She also wrote The Millionaires of Genesis, and about other great men of the Bible. Now prosperity may have been measured a bit differently during biblical times, but how could Jesus, the Son of God, be poor??? And he was also a prosperity teacher himself.

    I would say Jesus falls in line with the same example Randy gives of Mother Theresa, that she was not monetarily prosperous/wealthy, but recieved a tremendous amount of support that allowed her to live her life comfortably and continue to help more and more people. I can imagine that those that followed Jesus' teachings also supported Jesus in similar ways.

  40. What I really want is a home in the mountains. I want time and materials to sculpt. My visualizations, my savings and investments and my business plans all center around that dream. I live in an apartment and rent out my house, not because I want to deny myself the house, but because something else is more important to me. I save my good clothes for business meetings and I park my beat-up car a block away so my clients won't see it. I'll be retired before I'm thirty five, but it still hurts to be teased about jeans that don't fit, a desk built out of scrap wood, and a bumper held on to the car with duct tape. Between my burning desire for financial freedom and my innate sense of frugality and self sufficiency, I get called things like "cheap" and "uptight" kind of a lot. Am I being too hard on myself now, living for tomorrow? I love beauty, I will someday replace each thing I currently own with custom, handmade, artisan quality goods. But the less I buy 'doodads' now the sooner I will be out of the rat race...

  41. also, how do you have special occasions if the nice stuff is used every day? Maybe every day should be celebrated... But sometimes you want things to be extra, how to get some particular event to stand out? christmas lights lose their charm after a few weeks, I love them but I don't want to leave them up all year. Am I making excuses for a lack mentality or can it be good to treat myself to some things only once in a while?

  42. I agree with your thinking. I wish I had this knowledge when I was a teenager and I believe its never too late to start, I have been slowly changing to a new mind set. Its funny how I was saying to myself that I am a lender not a borrower, because I had a hard time saying the word "borrower"friends use to laugh. then I noticed I was lending money to family and friends some of them had jobs receiving paychecks every week and I did not have a full time job. just did 2-3 day job per week and sometimes none and have money in my pocket every day.

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  • 55 comments on “Are You Saving the Good China for Company?”

    1. Randy, I have never believed in 'company China', etc. I always figured my family and friends deserve to be eating from my best dinnerware as much as anyone else. Will some of it get broken? Sure. So what...why own two sets of dinnerware? That in itself is spending on the unnecessary things in life.

      Plastic over the furniture? Never! Anything within the walls of my home has always been there to be used and fully enjoyed by all who live there or come to visit! Will never forget the 'memory marks' on the dining table, created by her boys, that my Grandmom treasured long after the boys grew up and left home. She flatly refused all suggestions that she have that table refinished to remove those marks.

      Keep shinin'

      DJ

    2. Leo Buscaglia (http://www.buscaglia.com/) had a great story in one of his speeches (can be seen on YouTube).

      "What are you saving the good dishes for? To leave to your children? I have news for you, your children don't like it!! Take a piece and throw it against the wall. Show it who's boss. Then use them everyday!"

      I am probably not 100% accurate in my quote as I am going from memory.

      As for me, I only have one set of dishes. One I like and use every day, with everyone. I did make sure I had 12 of everything for when I entertain 🙂

    3. Randy,

      You've done it again, hitting the nail on the head...HARD! I use to think that elegant things were used for company; until a little ole lady told me different. She said, "Baby, YOU are your own best company!" She said that she wears her best gowns to bed (in case the good lord takes her home and she would be dressed nicely! lol) What a woman & she was wearing her best diamond jewelry (that you would find in the top jewelry stores!) when I met her!! I was floored! Now, where I live, I use my roommate's china and crystal (his grandma left him...rarely used! ;-( ). I put candles on the dining table and use cloth napkins whenever I can. I even wear my best lingerie all the time! (oops TMI).

      Once I be on my own, you best believe that ONLY the best will do. I like the statement you made about having a stereo system that will do the job ( I LOVE Bose!). I am sooo glad to know that there are others who feel like I feel about simple elegance and fine taste. I was teased for being boogee (siddity...a term meaning uppity). I just love the feel of opulence and being surrounded by nice things because my spirit is at peace.

      Do your thing Randy and keep reminding us of who we are...Adult Children of a KING!

    4. Poverty is a sin ... we've been looking at life all wrong and I agree with you Randy. If we really want something we just go get it. Working for other people dumbs us down so much that we have convinced ourselves that the finer things in life are for THEM. I agree with you that whether its the beat up clunker or the 2011 Benz convertible ... YOU bought the car so that defines who you are! You might be that person that DOES NOT CARE what they drive or you might be the person that does ... People start calling others names like "materialistic" and "stuck up" et al because of their ridiculous notion to blame others for their lack of productivity towards their dreams. Most of us have dreams but just won't follow the rules to get them. It's easier to pick up a paycheck that someone GIVES you at the end of two weeks than to go through the PAIN of finding a way to give others more value so you get paid what you really want. We all know this and that is why they call you "materialistic". Stay that way ... I'm on my way too bro 🙂

    5. My parents used to say that "it is better to give than to receive" which meant it was OK to give to others rather than give yourself. The china was used only for special occasions (and every day there were fewer special occasions). The money will be saved for use in case of illness or injury (not to enjoy it). The fine clothing was used only in special situations (for which lasted a long time without use). Spending money on something to make you feel good (travel, clothing, food, art, jewelry, fun) was considered a waste. These misconceptions made me live a life of scarcity in many areas. So I thank Randy, because he is helping us to be aware of those misconceptions we grew up with, confront and change them for the better.

    6. Great post Randy. I truly agree that our material items are a statement about us. I will never forget a professor that I had at Georgia Tech, everyday in class he was dressed to the tee in a great suit and a nice pair of shoes not like most of my professors. However, he did run a very sucessful construction management company in Atlanta as well as teach at Tech. I determined that quarter that when I got out of college that I would dress nice and drive nice cars because in my opinion, people want to do business with folks that look like they know where they are going and how to get there. Granted I have lost some of that lifestyle, I am well on may way back to having and portraying that image again.

    7. Aho! Randy - totally agree.

      I've got to 50 and still have to fight the impulse to "save for best". If we are truly living in the present moment then we will ensure that we are doing what gives us pleasure all the time not just some of the time.

      So it's good lingerie every day, wearing my favourite clothes every day and I've already picked out my new car. My this is such fun!

    8. Excellent post Randy.
      I believe 1000% that we all deserve prosperity and abundance in our lives. We were created in the image of God. There is no other option. Why people choose to believe that they need to live in poverty to be spiritual hits hard in my heart. They are missing out on so much of life. There is infinite abundance waiting for everyone to come and get their piece of it. The things on the outside are totally reflective of what is truly going on inside of us. It is our God given purpose and mission to live in his abundance and prosperity and anything else would be a disappointment to Him who created us! Thanks again for sharing this with us Randy.
      Make it a great day!
      God Bless,
      -ed

    9. Love your sutely, you got it right on-we need to be the best we can be and we can do what ever we want as long as we don't break laws,harm others, and enjoy the most that is available to us

    10. That doesn’t mean I am defined by my possessions.

      That says it all for me. Most Americans live their lives trying to impress someone don't like and living in debt.

    11. Fuck Randy, you got me all fired up here!!

      I've said this before and I'll say it again: All goals are spiritual goals. Even "materialistic" goals are spiritual. Why?

      Because everything that is manifested comes from the same source - the infinite energy field of potential and possibility (the Zero Point Field). So the Viper you drive is just as spiritual as the bond you feel when you are deeply connected with someone. (Because where did that someone originate from? You got it...)

      As someone close to me once said "the feeling you get when you drive a Viper IS a fucking a spiritual experience!"

      I for one, look forward to enjoying THAT particular spiritual experience!

      Randy, you knock my socks off!!! Woo!!

    12. The late Rev. Ike stated ''that it was better to have a surplus instead of a shortage." He quoted from the book of Luke: "...for it is your father's good pleasure to give you the Kingdom."

      Mediocrity will NO longer support who I AM.

      I choose quality instead of inferiority.

      Thank you Randy!

    13. I also use my best everyday.

      I have realized that some people think this "prosperity" stuff is new age (like some churches). I guess I always was open to looking at "new age" stuff. I found a book "How to Reach Your Full Potential for God...Never Settle for Less than His Best" by Charles F. Stanley who is a senior pastor at a Baptist Church. He says: "Step out in Faith. Trust the biblical promises and principles found in these pages. Embrace the passion and purpose that spring from a relationship with the God who made and loves you."

    14. So before I say anything Jesus was poor you saying he sinned cuz of that I don't believe it's a sin as long as you try to do something have faith don't give up also not everyone wants a Benz necessarily or the crystal vase or china. Unless you want that fine but I do think you should spoil yourself if not who else will lol so I agree work hard play hard have fun and enjoy your self while here

    15. I confused, are you saying my collection of velvet paintings is wrong 🙂

      I have always thought that if you could afford it, buy it, if you want it. That is not to say you should rack up your credit cards. Being able to afford something luxurious means everything else is taken care of.

      Back in January I got bumped to Business Class for a trip to Thailand and Singapore. I got to feel what it was like to fly in luxury.

      I was born to be rich, and good looking (gotta work on both of those)

    16. oh, looooooooove this post!!! Every saturday (shabbos) we break out the real china, real silver, actual real napkins. I ALWAYS tell my two beautiful children, that they deserve this just cause they are human beings breathing in G-ds wonderful air!!! They laugh when I say that but hopefully, the message hits home.

    17. if i have to dust my dishes, i give them away. BUT, when I put my favourite dishes in front of guests- wow- do they ever get uncomfortable!! Someone I know refers to them as my Hyacinth Bucket dishes. But I like them. And they are the ones I use. Even for my kids.

    18. While I understand and appreciate your wording, I do not think we are born TO BE anything - other than what we (already) ARE (even if not yet developed). If everything we think, say, do, wear, buy, and choose, says something about us, then the perceived significance of any statement(s) made should matter more to ourselves than how they may (or may not) be interpreted by anyone else. The original meaning of a sin was simply to (be off course and) miss the mark. One of the first attributes of those who are "rich" is to focus more on what they have rather than what they do not. Appreciation means to increase in value. The major "sin" of poverty is the focus on scarcity and lack rather than opportunities, abundance, and appreciation. Material (and other) "results" tend to reflect more where people are "coming from" (in their attitudes, actions, associations, self-image, or subconscious beliefs - especially about what is "acceptable") than much else. I don't think of being (or becoming) "rich" as a destination - but as a realization.

    19. Randy...all those things are great on time and space,they are low vibrational frequency energy and they bring momentum, pleasure and egoistic energy, but when the engines are off, the lights are down and the music is over and we are alone within us,, what??????, none of those toys will give us joy and love...

    20. Well this is consistent with what Wally Wattles says in "Science of Getting Rich".. The best thing we can do for the poor is not to be on to be one of them. And being rich in the company of poor people is an inspiration, rather than flaunting. It's a statement about the infinite abundance that surrounds us.

      Personally I don't care for Vipers :). My choice is an Aston Martin Vantage V8 or a Porsche Turbo..But the beauty of the Universe is that there are SO many choices with one or more to fit us all!

      Here's the question though: If you have not yet reached the level of income you KNOW is available, do you drive the car that's way beyond your reach, wear the clothes that are far more than you can afford, etc because it's a reflection of your personality?

    21. I have a Vantage as well and it's a magnificent automobile. In answer to your question, there's nothing prosperous about getting things like this on credit. You get the best you can with the income you have and work on manifesting a higher income.

      -RG

    22. Fortunately Randy has been blessed with excellent critical reasonning. The things you own are defined by you - there is no truer statement than this. If everyone bought a car based on utilitarian principles we'd all be driving VW beetles - without the automatic transmission option. As human beings, we all want our comfort and happiness, and should provide for ourselves the best we can afford - and use it too! We should also too have enough money put away for our own security as well. In Canada at least, we don't have to worry about health care, but the rest of our comfort and security is up to us! Once again Randy, you make perfect sense.

    23. I was born into poverty, but always felt I will be rich one day. I have no guilt, not even a tiny itty bitty bit when I think of becoming rich. I save nothing just for simply entertaining company. What I buy is for me to enjoy, not to be saved to one day show off to company.

      When I do become rich I will say I want to be richer. I want it all!

      Jamie 😉

    24. Poverty is not spiritual. That excuse is a cop-out for people who didn't achieve the financial success to which they aspire. It is the focus on spiritual matters, and spiritual behavior, that are spiritual.

      Yocheved Golani

    25. Another excellent post Randy. It seems in this world that constantly bombards us with how we are supposed to be poor and yet bemoan the fact we "don't have enough" and how terrible it is that we "don't have enough" that we have to get a good "in your face" nudge that that is all so much junk talk! It is ok to be prosperous, and for those that feel connected to the Bible, well re-read it and see how those that pleased God in the OT were blessed with much prosperity. Where did the idea that being poor was so much holier?

      I don't know, but I'm not buying into that any longer either and you have been one of the prominent, contemporary mentors that have helped to "shake up" the old, non-serving thoughts. Thanks for always being on target and saying it the way it is.

    26. agree whole heartedly... if one has to buy on credit its not prosperous, its ridiculous... a rule i started to live by when i was just starting out in sales. if i wanted that new 700 series, i set a goal to earn the cash, not just the cash, but rather 3 times the amount before i would allow myself to buy it. this way i experienced abundance even after the purchase was made. and i felt much better about it, because i not only owned the car outright, i also had double that amount in a "car fund" savings account, as well as my regular savings and checking accounts were busting at the seams as well.

      i noticed an amazing thing. if i set the goal of acquiring the car by a certain date, i got the car and the extra cash in half the time by shooting past the goal, allowing my mind to be open to how the money was to come to me, not just by my current employment but also open to other opportunities along the way.

      about getting the best you can on the income you have.

      when i first started out, broke, 20 years old, just out of the hospital still in massive amounts of pain, i took what little money i had in my pocket and got the best apartment i could afford at the time. it was empty so as i earned i purchased, not what i needed to get by, but what i wanted to ensure i was surrounded by luxury (the luxury i could afford at the time) every evening i ate in style, with one set of fine silverware, one set of fine plate ware, one comfortable expensive chair that matched my expensive table. nothing on credit. as time went on i purchased a second chair, and second sent of dishes, and second set of silverware and furnished my whole apartment this way in less than 6 months i was completely surrounded in luxury. when i moved into the condo i paid for cash, i at that time had the best i could afford at the time without breaking the bank.

      i didn't do it for the neighbors, or for the girls, or for business clients, i did it for me, as a constant reminder of living my life to the fullest and rewarding myself daily for a job well done.

    27. i'm in southeast asia and haven't stepped foot in my luxury cars, or my luxury home back in the states for over three years and i gotta tell ya, the "vibrational frequency" of these things still brings me joy half way around the world.

    28. that reminds me of a joke....

      A burglar broke into a home and was looking around. He heard a soft voice say, "Jesus is watching you". Thinking it was just his imagination, he continued his search. Again the voice said "Jesus is watching you". He turned his flashlight around and saw a parrot in a cage.

      He asked the parrot if he was the one talking and the parrot said, "yes."

      He asked the parrot what his name was and the parrot said, "Moses."

      The burglar asked, "what kind of people would name a parrot Moses?"

      The parrot said, "the same kind of people who would name their pit bull Jesus".

    29. oh, man... now you got me started.... lol

      A Sunday School teacher of preschoolers told her students that she wanted each of them to have learned one fact about Jesus by the next Sunday. The following week she asked each child in turn what he or she had learned.

      Susie said, "He was born in a manger."

      Bobby said, "He threw the money changers out of the temple."

      Little Johnny said, "He has a red pickup truck but he doesn't know how to drive it."

      Curious, the teacher asked, "And where did you learn that, Johnny?"

      "From my Daddy," said Johnny. "Yesterday we were driving down the highway, and this red pickup truck pulled out in front of us and Daddy yelled at him, 'Jesus Christ! Why don't you learn how to drive?'"

    30. i've been striving for the good looking for years now also... let me know if you come up with something... business class to singapore and thailand is comfortable yes... yes... yes... i always chuckle when the staff announce on the intercom no one from coach is allowed to use the lavatory in business class hehehe.... another benefit is that there's almost no one else in business class when i fly so i have the section to myself.. lol....

    31. randy is not only blessed with abundance, he also has perfect cuticles. :o) i still get a cuckle from that.... gotta love it.... my cuticles suck by the way.... :o(

    32. OMG i can't stop....

      The Pope arrives in heaven, where St. Peter awaites him. St. Peter asks who he is.

      The Pope: "I am the pope."

      St. Peter: "Who? There's no such name in my book."

      The Pope: "I'm the representative of God on Earth."

      St.Peter: "Does God have a representative? He didn't tell me ..."

      The Pope: "But I am the leader of the Catholic Church ..."

      St. Peter: "The Catholic church ... Never heard of it ... Wait, I'll check with the boss."

      St. Peter walks away through Heaven's Gate to talk with God.

      St. Peter: "There's a dude standing outside who claims he's your representative on earth."

      God: "I don't have a representative on earth, not that I know of ... Wait, I'll ask Jesus." (yells for Jesus)

      Jesus: "Yes father, what's up?"

      God and St. Peter explain the situation.

      Jesus: "Wait, I'll go outside and have a little chat with that fellow."

      Ten minutes pass and Jesus reenters the room laughing out loud. After a few minutes St. Peter asks Jesus why he's laughing.

      Jesus: "Remember that fishing club I've started 2000 years ago? It still exists!"

    33. i promise this is the last one....

      Most people assume WWJD is for “What would Jesus do?” But the initials really stand
      for “What would Jesus drive?”

      One theory is that Jesus would tool around in an old Plymouth because “the Bible says God drove Adam and Eve out of the Garden of Eden in a Fury.”

      But in Psalm 83, the Almighty clearly owns a Pontiac and a Geo. The passage urges the
      Lord to “pursue your enemies with your Tempest and terrify them with your Storm.”

      Perhaps God favors Dodge pickup trucks, because Moses' followers are warned not to go up a mountain “until the Ram's horn sounds a long blast.”

      Some scholars insist that Jesus drove a Honda but didn't like to talk about it. As proof, they cite a verse in St. John's
      gospel where Christ tells the crowd, “For I did not speak of my own Accord.”

      Meanwhile, Moses rode an old British motorcycle, as evidenced by a Bible passage
      declaring, “the roar of Moses' Triumph is heard in the hills.”

      Joshua drove a Triumph sports car with a hole in its muffler: “Joshua's Triumph was
      heard throughout the land.” And, following the Master's lead, the Apostles car-pooled in a Honda: “The Apostles were in one Accord.”

    34. Randy,

      You Rock !! Learning and bettering ouselves is why God has put us here. Arrogance, to me, is thinking God wants us to live in Sheds. That is Ignorant ! Live Life, Love Life, and Be Filled with LIfe and Joy.

      Thank You Randy,
      Ed

    35. An interesting post, Randy and an intriguing conversation, all. I'm still of two minds, tho' I think Oren said it best: "One of the first attributes of those who are “rich” is to focus more on what they have rather than what they do not. ... The major “sin” of poverty is the focus on scarcity and lack rather than opportunities, abundance, and appreciation."

      I think it can be hard to counter the FEAR that when I do have wealth I'll be like "those people", with the FAITH that God's will won't take me where His grace won't protect me.

      Anyone else challenged by this?

    36. "That doesn’t mean I am defined by my possessions. It means they are defined by me. " Randy, I love it!

      Five years ago, when I went shopping for new dishes I bought china with gold trim.

      The Corelle comes in handy for the microwave- no zaps or superhot sections. Also good for eating around the pool (avoiding anything that would shatter and cause a safety issue for bare feet.)

      I also took lessons from my mother in law: use the best china every day and wash it in the dishwasher. Why have something beautiful that you're not using?

      I wear my precious jewelry whenever and with whatever I please. Imagine wearing an opera length strand of matched rose pearls paired with a Doobie Brothers Tshirt to the hardware store.

      When feeling bored I have been known to don a formal gown and go grocery shopping. The fun is to act like this is normal and see if anyone asks me why I'm dressed up.

      Giving large amounts anonymously can be fun, especially when I know and associate with the receivers. It's fun to witness their joy in receiving and play along about not knowing the source.

      I have a blast paying the toll fees of 5 or more cars in line behind me. It's a tradition on the Golden Gate Bridge and that was the first place I experienced receiving that generosity- literally when I did not have the money to pay. It's a little more confusing to the toll booth operators on the Chicago Turnpike or the turnpike near Cleveland, but they catch on quickly.

      All of these have helped lessen the "poor is spiritual" message I received as a child.

    37. One can afford "luxuries" if one knows where to look. I put "luxuries" in quotes to point out that the mindless use of the word can signal a "this is beyond my means" thought pattern.

      I too agree that using credit cards to "keep up with the Joneses" is a mistake. Do you really like what items they own, or are you simply in competition with them?

      Then again, do the best with what you have: buy the best quality you can afford of what you LIKE, take care of it, and keep growing your money streams so you can have more!

      Some sources for the budding wealth magnet: Consignment stores for designer clothes and formal wear, pawn shops for jewelry, factory outlet stores for Bose systems, stores selling the "End Of Season" fashion you've had your eye on. Cars: Directly from the dealer. Learn to negotiate.

      The pristine china came from a consignment store, the three section mahogany desk from a company's moving sale, the pearls were a gift from Fiance Number One-And-One-Half (that's another story). There also are things I will buy as soon as they come on the rack: business wear with sleeves long enough for my arms!

      My suggestion: buy it because YOU like it! And as you're building your fortune, find a source that provides it at the price you're willing to pay.

    38. Iam a beloved child of the Most High God in Christ Jesus therefore I deserve riches, ought to be...
      I like the best things for my life, the ideas.. only the best...

      Gene

    39. Have you ever read Catherine Ponder?? She has a series of books all about prosperity. One of the books she wrote: The Millionaire of Nazareth. She also wrote The Millionaires of Genesis, and about other great men of the Bible. Now prosperity may have been measured a bit differently during biblical times, but how could Jesus, the Son of God, be poor??? And he was also a prosperity teacher himself.

      I would say Jesus falls in line with the same example Randy gives of Mother Theresa, that she was not monetarily prosperous/wealthy, but recieved a tremendous amount of support that allowed her to live her life comfortably and continue to help more and more people. I can imagine that those that followed Jesus' teachings also supported Jesus in similar ways.

    40. What I really want is a home in the mountains. I want time and materials to sculpt. My visualizations, my savings and investments and my business plans all center around that dream. I live in an apartment and rent out my house, not because I want to deny myself the house, but because something else is more important to me. I save my good clothes for business meetings and I park my beat-up car a block away so my clients won't see it. I'll be retired before I'm thirty five, but it still hurts to be teased about jeans that don't fit, a desk built out of scrap wood, and a bumper held on to the car with duct tape. Between my burning desire for financial freedom and my innate sense of frugality and self sufficiency, I get called things like "cheap" and "uptight" kind of a lot. Am I being too hard on myself now, living for tomorrow? I love beauty, I will someday replace each thing I currently own with custom, handmade, artisan quality goods. But the less I buy 'doodads' now the sooner I will be out of the rat race...

    41. also, how do you have special occasions if the nice stuff is used every day? Maybe every day should be celebrated... But sometimes you want things to be extra, how to get some particular event to stand out? christmas lights lose their charm after a few weeks, I love them but I don't want to leave them up all year. Am I making excuses for a lack mentality or can it be good to treat myself to some things only once in a while?

    42. I agree with your thinking. I wish I had this knowledge when I was a teenager and I believe its never too late to start, I have been slowly changing to a new mind set. Its funny how I was saying to myself that I am a lender not a borrower, because I had a hard time saying the word "borrower"friends use to laugh. then I noticed I was lending money to family and friends some of them had jobs receiving paychecks every week and I did not have a full time job. just did 2-3 day job per week and sometimes none and have money in my pocket every day.

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