"The gratification of wealth is not found in mere possession or in lavish expenditure, but in its wise application." Miguel De Cervantes.

Cervantes doesn't want us to be Quixotic in a pursuit of riches, with our imaginations all worked up about how great wealth is and how much we could enjoy the lifestyle it can provide.

One of my drivers in a major city recently lamented the frequent spectacle of rich hedge fund managers in town on "business trips" that were actually out-of-control rampages of alcohol, sex, and drugs - and it's something he often witnesses. As a trustworthy soul, these guys know they can let him see at least some of what they do and count on him not to tell tales while naming names. So they ask for him when they come to town. He's a philosophical enough soul to recognize the great absolute waste of wealth and health that he sees, fueled by what seems to be endless money.

The gratification of wealth, Cervantes reminds us, is in its wise application. The value of almost anything is a result of how it's used. That's been a constant reminder of the wisest philosophers.

How do you use your own wealth? And, of course, that encompasses not only your available money, but your talents, relationships, and overall health. How do you use your mind? Do you give all these things their wisest application in the world?

The great author would have us all ask ourselves how we're using the wealth that we have. So, please ask this important question in your own life.

Today.