Igor Stravinsky: 'Money may kindle, but it cannot by itself, and for very long, burn.'

Money may kindle, but it cannot by itself, and for very long, burn.

Igor Stravinsky's quote, "Money may kindle, but it cannot by itself, and for very long, burn," captures the essence of the transient nature of wealth. At its core, the quote suggests that while money can ignite and stimulate various aspects of our lives, it lacks the intrinsic ability to sustain these impacts in the long run. It serves as a reminder that financial prosperity alone is not enough to fuel the fire of happiness, contentment, or fulfillment. Stravinsky's words resonate with many individuals who have achieved financial success but seek something more profound. These words prompt us to explore beyond the conventional understanding of wealth and question the true sources of long-lasting satisfaction.Delving into Stravinsky's sentiment opens up an opportunity to introduce an unexpected philosophical concept – the distinction between extrinsic and intrinsic motivations. In the pursuit of success, it is not uncommon for individuals to primarily focus on external motivators, such as money, fame, or material possessions. These extrinsic factors may indeed kindle one's drive, providing an initial spark and temporarily fueling one's ambitions. However, as Stravinsky suggests, their flame tends to diminish over time.In contrast to extrinsic motivations, intrinsic motivations originate from within us, reflecting our innermost desires and values. While money may act as a catalyst for achieving certain goals or fulfilling certain desires, it is the intrinsic motivations that truly sustain our passions and provide long-term satisfaction. These internal drivers consist of personal growth, self-fulfillment, meaningful relationships, and a sense of purpose. Embracing and nurturing these intrinsic motivations allows us to cultivate a fulfilling life, even when faced with financial fluctuations.The comparison between extrinsic and intrinsic motivations is like contrasting two forms of fire. Extrinsic motivators are like quick-burning fuel, providing temporary bursts of energy and excitement. They can be likened to a bonfire, captivating and impressive in the moment, but ultimately dwindling away as the fuel runs out. On the other hand, intrinsic motivators resemble the warmth and glow of a hearth fire, consistently radiating with a steady flame that brings lasting comfort and contentment.Within the context of wealth and money, we can easily see how people fall into the trap of pursuing extrinsic rewards and neglecting their intrinsic needs. Financial success may bring superficial pleasures, allowing individuals to indulge in material possessions or luxurious experiences. However, without a foundation built on intrinsic motivations, the impact of wealth rapidly fades away, and the initial excitement transforms into emptiness.Interestingly, it is often during times of financial adversity that individuals are compelled to re-evaluate their motivations and search for deeper meaning. When the external fires of money and material wealth diminish, people are forced to turn inward and rediscover the intrinsic motivators that sustain their spirits. It is during these moments that individuals may find solace in personal growth, creativity, relationships, or contributing to a cause larger than themselves.To illustrate this concept, consider the story of an individual who achieved immense financial success but found themselves feeling unfulfilled. Initially, the allure of money fueled their drive, allowing them to accumulate substantial wealth and enjoy the accompanying luxuries. However, as time passed, the excitement waned, leaving behind a void that material possessions could not fill. At their lowest point, when financial shortcomings were exposed, this individual had an awakening. They realized that their happiness had become intertwined with their bank balance and that true fulfillment would not be found in the external realm.Rather than continuously chasing money, this person redirected their energy towards personal growth, exploring their passions, cultivating meaningful relationships, and contributing to causes close to their heart. They found that by nurturing their intrinsic motivations, they could experience a sustainable and lasting sense of purpose and contentment.In conclusion, Igor Stravinsky's quote serves as a powerful reminder of the limitations of money in providing lasting fulfillment. While financial success can ignite various aspects of our lives, it is the intrinsic motivations that sustain the flame of happiness and contentment over time. By focusing on personal growth, self-fulfillment, meaningful relationships, and a sense of purpose, individuals can transcend the transient nature of wealth and find enduring satisfaction. So let us not solely rely on the kindling of money but instead gather the fuel of intrinsic motivation to create a fire that burns brightly for years to come.