Occasionally we here at The Contrary Perspective will publish quotations that have special meaning for contrarians and free-thinkers. One of my favorite quotations comes from the Norwegian author, Arne Garborg.
For money you can have everything it is said. No, that is not true. You can buy food, but not appetite; medicine, but not health; soft beds, but not sleep; knowledge, but not intelligence; glitter, but not comfort; fun, but not pleasure; acquaintances, but not friendship; servants, but not faithfulness; grey hair, but not honor; quiet days, but not peace. The shell of all things you can get for money. But not the kernel. That cannot be had for money.
In these days when money is equated with success or even with “elect” status among some Christians (the so-called prosperity gospel), Garborg reminds us that the kernel of life is something that defies being bought.
Americans are constantly being pressured to keep up with the Joneses. To spend, spend, spend, for happiness. Garborg tells us that true happiness is to be sought elsewhere.
Keep on seeking, contrarians!
W.J. Astore
Bracing Views 