I don’t need a yacht or rings–
or bling—
only enough wealth
to pay bills, to manage health,
the everyday decisions,
not star-struck visions
(think of
Richard Cory, richer than a king. . .)
but listen to the mockingbird sing—
riches the world brings
This is a quadrille for dVerse, where Kim has asked us to use the word “rich.” For some reason, the poem, “Richard Cory” popped into my mind. You can read it here.
Yesterday and today: Merril's historical musings 
You words reminds me of the difference between wants and needs.
Yes, you’re right. Thank you, Frank.
Sometimes, we only need something so simple and we’d be, happy, and we don’t even realize, that we already have everything we need………
Yes, that’s true. Thank you!
Nicely done, Merril!
really enjoyed this
Thank you so much!
Lovely 🙂
Thank you, Susan. 🙂
I didn’t know that poem. It’s a good one, has a catchy rhythm them, bam!
You don’t need a yacht or bling, I know. Some people do though, that’s the problem. Some people have the idea that they couldn’t possibly be expected to live without it. If only we weren’t so greedy.
It’s one of those poems that have stayed with me–just popping into my head every once and awhile. I maybe first read it in junior high?
Yes, you’re right about some people.
It’s hard to know when enough is enough.
Yes.
You perspective is rich in truth! Enough to enjoy life…but not enough to worry about!
Thank you, Dwight! 🙂
Yes, m most of us ave simple needs but we feel rich when they are met. Lovely Merril 🙂
Thank you so much, Christine. 🙂
Clearly I didn’t check my typing before sending 😕. Sorry about that Merril
Nothing to be sorry about, Christine. It happens to all of us. 🙂
Yes indeed, and yes, listen to the mockingbird sing.
Yes–I love mockingbird concerts. 🙂
🙂
This definitely speaks to me, Merril. Love what you have not want what you don’t.
Thank you very much, Dale! 🙂
🙂
What a wonderful perspective Merril!
Simplicity is the best reward; finding joy in what you have, cherishing what you accomplish.
Yes, thank you, Glenn.
For some reason, I read this with the voice of Coolio in my head. And then I heard ‘Who wants to be a millionaire?’ – also in Coolio’s voice! I like the aside about Richard Cory and the final lines are fabulous, Merril!
So funny, Kim! I wonder why. I had to look up Coolio, so it certainly wasn’t my intention. But thank you!
I couldn’t think of any other deep-voiced rappers. I’m not a hip-hop or rap type of girl, but it had to be that kind of sound.
🙂
Amen to this!
Thank you! 🙂
Happiness coming from having enough, and then having time to enjoy it.
Yes–I suppose having both those things would be perfect.
Listening to the birds singing brings me joy too. I like the moderation approach to materials things. Have it enough, and enjoy more of life.
Yes. Worrying about paying bills is not fun, but once that’s taken care of, who needs all the other stuff? 🙂
Yep. Rich in what matters most.
Yes. Thank you!
I had an urge for Simon and Garfunkel and was just listening to that song an hour ago. “just enough is plenty” as the old saying goes. (K)
I didn’t even remember that song! I just found it and listened. Yes, just enough is plenty.
Very well done – especially thinking of Rich
Thank you very much, Derrick.
You know this poem reminds me of your Monday Musing about “small joys” like strawberries and dogs. I’d love enough wealth to manage my health and my cats’ health too (we spend more on their health needs than we spend on our own 😉 ). Time is also wealth and I’d love more time to spend on those small joys. No yachts necessary, a canoe will do.
Yes–I’m actually a bit anxious about money right now. We’re spending a lot caring for my mom. People and animal’s health care is so expensive, along with all the day-to-day expenses. It is worrying. And you are right about time, too. That’s why I have to think of those small joys. 🙂
Oh dear, when you’re worrying over someone’s care, the last thing you need to worry about is money to pay for it. ❤️
Yes. . . .Thank you, Marie. ❤
I can “hear” the man in the painting saying this – a poem, but also a mantra, a lesson, a prayer.
I found the painting after the poem, but perhaps. 🙂
Maybe you could write your message across the sky. So many in the U.S. don’t know the riches they possess.
Thank you, Ali. Though in fairness, many do have horrible lives that are not filled with riches of any sort.
True. There are many in the U.S. who struggle without food, shelter or services.
your sentiments resonate strongly with me … enough to cover costs and plenty of time to enjoy life!
Yes–though sometimes it’s a fine line.
agreed!