"财富是一个人可以不依赖的事物的数量"

The core idea here is that true wealth isn't about how much you have, but about how much you don't need. It's saying that real richness comes from contentment with simplicity and not being tied down by material possessions. Think about it for a second. If you can be happy with less, you’re not constantly chasing more, and that’s a kind of freedom that money can’t buy.

Historically, this idea has roots in many philosophical and spiritual traditions. Take the ancient Greek philosopher Diogenes, for instance. He famously lived in a barrel and owned almost nothing. When Alexander the Great offered him anything he wanted, Diogenes just asked him to step aside because he was blocking his sunlight. Talk about not needing much to be content!

Let's dive into a real-life example. Picture a couple who decides to downsize. They sell their big house in the suburbs and move into a small, cozy apartment in the city. They get rid of all the extra stuff they've accumulated over the years—furniture, gadgets, clothes they never wear. Now, they spend their weekends exploring the city, trying new foods, and spending quality time together instead of mowing the lawn or cleaning out the garage. Their lives are simpler, but they feel richer. That’s because their happiness comes from experiences and relationships, not things.

So, how do you apply this wisdom to your own life? Start by decluttering. Look around your home. Do you really need all those books you never read or those kitchen gadgets you never use? Begin with small steps. Donate or sell items you don’t need. You might find that not only does your living space feel bigger, but your mental space does too. Also, think twice before buying something new. Ask yourself, "Do I need this, or is it just a want?" If it’s the latter, maybe hold off.

Now, imagine this scenario. You’re at a coffee shop with a friend, catching up. Your friend tells you about her recent trip to a remote village where people live simply. They grow their own food, barter for goods, and live in modest homes. There’s no rush, no constant noise, just a slower pace of life. She tells you how happy and content the villagers seemed, with so little. You start to wonder if there’s something to this idea of needing less to feel more.

By focusing on the essentials, you can discover a kind of wealth that isn’t tied to your bank account. It’s about finding joy in what you have and who you’re with, rather than constantly seeking the next big thing. It’s a shift in mindset, but once you make it, you might find that the freedom it brings is priceless. So next time you’re tempted by the latest gadget or gizmo, remember: wealth is the number of things you can do without.