Shoremates,

Welcome to the next part of the life changing book, Richest Man in Babylon.

The two main characters in this chapter are Rodan, the spear maker, and Mathon, the money lender.  Rodan is having a massive internal conflict because he just received 50 years worth of savings from the king as a reward, doesn't know how to invest it, and people are asking for it as an investment for other business ideas.

In this episode, we talk through the money lender's response to situations similar to the above, and talk through a story about an ox and a donkey. The lesson from the story is this: if you desire to help your friend, do so in a way that will not bring your friend’s burdens upon yourself.

3 types of loans talked about during this episode are personal property (collateral), assured earning capacity (yearly salary), and the cosign only loans.  

The main idea of this chapter is "Better a little caution, than a great regret!"

Action steps:

1. Are there any ways that you have become like the donkey in the story, unintentionally taking on someone else's burden?
2. If the answer is yes, let go of resentment and anger.  Forgive them.  Forgiveness is for you (this doesn't mean you trust them.)
3. Spend several minutes thinking about everything you are grateful for in extreme detail.  This allows your mind to open up and think creatively.
4. Brainstorm ways to free yourself from any burden you've taken on for friends or family members.

I truly hope this provided value to you today.  Always remember, you've got this!

J.D. Elliott