Numerous political theories have been proposed in Zimbabwe, yet the enduring challenge of poverty remains insufficiently addressed. Tackling this issue necessitates a collective commitment from all individuals to confront problematic situations directly. The principle of cause and effect, though complex, can serve as a valuable tool in addressing existing challenges.
Poverty is a condition of the mind, not merely determined by one’s access to privileges through association with influential political figures. While many attribute the economic challenges to President Mugabe, I hold firm reasons to dissent from this perspective. Regarding issues of poverty, let us refrain from blaming the nonagenarian president and instead reflect on the teachings of Jesus as recorded in the Bible.
The mission of Jesus is often misunderstood, frequently being erroneously linked to materialism. Jesus left behind no physical possessions. However, when compared to the wealthiest individuals of His era, who can present evidence of wealth greater than what Jesus holds today? It is indisputable that true wealth holds significance only when it is enduring.
“Dimensions of a New Civilization” devotes a chapter to individuals consumed by criticizing politicians or others, thereby absolving themselves of responsibility for prevailing conditions. Instead of complaining, people should prioritize contributing to the alleviation of poverty within their communities. True wealth is found in serving and benefiting others. Nevertheless, it is vital to embrace this principle: Poverty is fundamentally a state of mind.
Individuals are categorized into groups such as low-income earners, middle-income earners, and the very wealthy. While low-income earners are often considered the least privileged, this perception may not apply when evaluating the analysis presented below. Even on a global scale, individuals can be categorized into the following three behavioral types:
- Spenders: In our societies, such individuals are often associated with poverty. Even if provided with substantial financial resources, they tend to exhaust everything within a short period and subsequently attribute their return to poverty to external factors. They are preoccupied with concerns about how others perceive them and are constantly seeking to impress. They desire to be seen driving luxurious cars and prefer to reside in affluent neighborhoods. Due to the insatiable nature of human desires, such individuals find it challenging to achieve contentment.
It is often asserted that the nation experienced prosperity in 1980. However, this apparent success arose from individuals who became immersed in a culture of excessive consumption. This behavior ultimately plunged the country into poverty. Numerous examples linger in the collective memory, illustrating the concrete repercussions of greed, which often results in outcomes contrary to the original intentions.
2. Savers: These individuals are diligent in saving their money, carefully managing the limited resources at their disposal. They might be regarded as affluent but not genuinely wealthy, occupying a middle ground. Unfortunately, such individuals are often associated with frugality, as they are perceived as stingy and unwilling to share, driven by their focus on saving. Generosity is rare among them. They devote most of their lives to hard work yet seldom reap the benefits of their efforts, remaining wary of excessive expenditure.
3. The investors: Wealthy individuals are those who invest their money, time, or resources in ways that benefit others rather than focusing solely on themselves. True entrepreneurs are often associated with wealth because they prioritize creating value for others. In the arts, notable figures include William Shakespeare, Leonardo da Vinci, and others. In football, there are legends such as Cristiano Ronaldo, alongside other icons in various sports. In politics, examples include influential leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela.
The list may extend to domains such as music, philosophy, inventions, and technology. However, at the pinnacle of the list of investors stands Jesus Christ. They are not consumed by the worries that preoccupy spenders and savers. At the moment of their passing, investors reflect on this question: “In all my pursuits on this earth, did the majority of people find joy in my existence?” In contrast, the other two categories seek to answer this question: “In all my endeavors on this earth, was I ever happy that I lived?”
Andrew Masuku is the author of Dimensions of a New Civilization, which lays down standards for uplifting Zimbabwe from the current state of economic depression into a model for other nations worldwide. A decaying tree provides an opportunity for a blossoming sprout. Written from a Christian perspective, the book is a product of inspiration, bringing relief to those having witnessed the strings of unworkable solutions–leading to the current economic and social decay. Most Zimbabweans should find the book as a long-awaited providential oasis of hope in a simple conversational tone.
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