Why Risking Life and Limb for Gold Isn’t Worth It

Age does not necessarily mean wisdom, but at 67, I can confidently say that I have never been in a situation where robbing someone for a gold chain was a reasonable choice. Over my lifetime, I have found that such actions bring nothing but trouble and regret.

Gold: A Bad Choice

Let’s face it, gold is not everyone’s cup of tea. Personally, I find it ugly and nasty looking. When I can get a better deal with platinum, I either take the offer or avoid gold altogether. The allure of gold fades when you consider the facts.

Robbing with No Risk?

While attempting to rob someone with little risk might seem tempting, especially if the victim is a woman, it is a path I never would and could follow. In a past experience, I found myself in a market in Northern Iraq, surrounded by a team carrying M16A1 rifles, and yet, we were not robbed. Does this mean robbing is not about the risk? Not quite. While the risk might seem minimal, it brings a much heavier burden.

Self-Defense and Public Service?

Carrying a big-bore revolver and even considering the act of killing a criminal to be a public service is defensive psychology. It is a way to rationalize thoughts and actions that go beyond reason. In my case, even with a hefty amount of cash, I would not risk my life for a gold chain. The universe and karma do not play kindly with such actions, and each person has their own reality. Your presence in someone else's reality entails taking on their anguish and suffering, which is a violation of the personal boundaries that define you.

Personal Anecdote: The Gold Chain Murder

On September 29, 2023, my world changed forever. My grandson lost his life for a gold chain. It is a stark reminder that some people place such little value on human life that they are willing to kill for a material object. This event left an indelible mark on my life, making me question the value of such actions.

Broader Perspective: A Breakpoint for Survival

There was a time in my life when survival seemed to come down to a single gold chain. The year was not different from my other years, but it seemed like I was broke beyond measure. Living on peanut butter and jelly sandwiches was a reality, and my only hope was that payday was just around the corner. Returning home late at night, the subway carriage was empty except for an old man. He was counting a wad of cash that appeared to be equivalent to several months’ rent. At that moment, the thought of taking that money crossed my mind, but I held back. My integrity and sense of self made it impossible to follow through.

The lesson is clear: risk and reward are disproportionate. The loss of life, both yours and someone else's, cannot be quantified by any material gain. Instead of chasing after precious metals that can bring you down, it is better to focus on values that enrich your soul and guide your actions.

Conclusion

Robbery, whether with or without risk, is not a sustainable solution to life’s challenges. Gold chains and other material possessions have no value if they come at the cost of a life. It is crucial to always consider the greater impact of our actions and the values that define who we are. The sway of materialistic urges should not overshadow the respect for human life and personal integrity.