Health is Wealth

Our physical bodies are our greatest assets. We are bipedal beings with two legs, two arms, and a spine that allows us to stand upright. We are designed to be outside, moving, and engaging with our environment. Yet, modern life often confines us to sedentary routines, especially those long commutes and hours spent in offices.

Instead of being confined like zoo animals, we should embrace our natural state—moving, standing, and thriving outside. This reminds me of Prometheus in Greek mythology, who defied the gods to bring fire to humanity, enabling civilization. Although he suffered for his actions, his story underscores the importance of progress and resilience.

The ancient Spartans are another great example of physical resilience and strength. They wore armor that weighed between 60 to 70 pounds, a testament to their rigorous training. Wearing a weighted vest like the Rogue plate carrier can simulate Spartan training, especially when combined with barefoot shoes to engage our natural posture and movements.

Embracing Simplicity

In today’s world, we might be better off living like Diogenes, who found joy in simple pleasures and defied societal expectations. This philosopher lived with minimal possessions and valued his freedom above all. His famous encounter with Alexander the Great, where he asked Alexander to “get out of my sunlight,” is a powerful reminder of prioritizing what truly matters.

Reflecting on Modern Life

Walking around Philadelphia, I see the contrast between historical art and modern technology. The Philadelphia Museum of Art stands as a citadel of culture, while the modern Comcast tower symbolizes today’s corporate world. Yet, with all our technological advances, it’s crucial not to let them enslave us. Instead, we should use technology as a tool to enhance our freedom.

Consider the tragic irony of modern work life: spending long hours in offices, commuting, and sitting in cars. This lifestyle often leads to a decay of our physical and mental health. It’s time to break free from these constraints. Instead of sacrificing our health for wealth, we should see health as the ultimate wealth.

Allegory of Aladdin

This reminds me of the allegory of Aladdin in the cave. Aladdin enters the cave and discovers the genie in the bottle amidst all the treasure. Choosing the genie over the treasure symbolizes choosing wisdom and knowledge over material wealth. In today’s context, it means recognizing that health and well-being are more valuable than material possessions.

Breaking Free

The goal is to transcend the constraints of modern life and find ways to connect with our natural state. Whether it’s spending more time outdoors, engaging in physical activities, or simply lying on the grass and enjoying the sun, these actions ground us in our humanity.

Let’s embrace the lessons from the past and apply them to our lives today. Prioritize health, physical strength, and time spent outdoors. Strive for excellence and creativity, much like the men who built the beautiful structures like City Hall and the Wanamaker building in Philadelphia. These works of art stand as a testament to human potential and our ability to transcend the ordinary.

As we move forward, let’s focus on creating more and consuming less. Whether it’s through art, music, or physical activities, we have the power to shape our reality. Health is indeed wealth, and it’s the foundation for a fulfilling and purposeful life.