In the materialistic world we live in, we all imagine what our lives would be if we had one million dollars. Money is what defines us in society, from lower to middle to upper class, and with the more money you possess, the more possibilities that seem to open up. With a million dollars, you could join a yacht club, become a member of an elite golf club, purchase a company to make even more money, or start a collection of exotic cars/coins/paintings. These choices would lead to opening more doors, meeting other CEOs or famous collectors, opening even more doors to a world of unending possibilities. We all have heard the phrase "Money is power" and when we look at political figures and Hollywood stars, we can conclude that this phrase has proven to be true. So why do I want this power?

I want nothing to do with power. I want a million dollars for the freedom. My uncle, who is a successful business CEO, once told me that he didn't love working for the money, he worked hard "for the freedom that money gives him." When I reflected on this idea, it really hit me hard. People spend their whole lives working to earn money, but money is just glorified government paper. It can be used for power like I mentioned before, or we could use it to become better people. Having a million dollars sitting in a savings account would give me the peace of mind that I lack every day. From rent to food, to tuition, to life I constantly feel the pressure of earning money. This pressure leads to me making decisions based on my financial situation, which hinders my life experiences.

Having a million dollars could give me the freedom to travel around the world, with no worries of bills. I could enjoy the culture and experiences that normally would be hindered by how much I needed to go one these trips. I could enjoy my education, instead of working a part time job on top of earning my degree. I could give back to the amazing people who have helped me become the person that I could be. I could give back to the amazing people who are in need of help. With a million dollars I could have the freedom to live the life that I always dreamed.

But wait, some people may say that you can't live off of a million dollars for the rest of your life. That may be true, but if I had such a large backup, I would have the freedom to choose the job that I am most passionate about. I wouldn't have to choose a job based on the pay, but base it off of what I want and would love to do. I could buy a small house, enough to be a place that I call home, and continue to experience the world around me. I would have the ability to learn a few languages, enrich my yoga practice, go hiking and backpacking across the world and be able to help those around me achieve their dreams. Help those who need someone to pick them up again. Help those who feel lost and confused. My life has been an absolute blessing, filled with some of the most amazing people who have given me so much. My parents, my extended family, my friends, and my boyfriend. But there is some level where, if I could, I want to give back to them twice as much of what they gave to me. These people are my life, and being able to give them what they have dreamed of, on top of my own goals, I would be the happiest person in the world. If I had a million dollars, I would have that freedom.