It was a moving target, the way that Brett thought about success. Growing up, he’d imagined that having a job and earning as much money as he wanted would be an indication that he’d made it as an adult. Seeing his parents juggle their time and money, trying to make ends meet, was a lingering memory. They didn’t really want for anything, but there were times when they missed out on excursions or outings with friends as there wasn’t enough money to stretch that far.

But when he’d met that measure of success, it took some time to realise that it didn’t feel quite as good as he’d expected. Not having to worry about money was a weight off his mind, though it created a different set of challenges. He’d thought that he’d feel lighter, somehow.

It took him a while to recall a lesson that his parents had taught him, all those years ago. Even when things were tight, they’d been generous to others. It wasn’t necessarily about money, more about giving their time and support to people who needed it. They hadn’t wanted repayment or thanks, just to share their good fortune and skills with those that needed it.

Brett found ways to offer a helping hand to others, and discovered that it gave him a sense of fulfilment and satisfaction beyond measure.

I’m participating in this blogging challenge for the month of January, which supports starting the year on the “write” track. You can find other posts with #bloganuary and join in the challenge.

Photo: hand sculpture at Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney