For me, the biggest thing with money has always been independence

Listen closely, O children of the future, for the words of Monica Seles carry a deep and universal truth about the human pursuit of independence. She says, "For me, the biggest thing with money has always been independence—just the biggest." In this simple statement, Seles encapsulates the powerful and profound role that money plays in our lives, not as an end in itself, but as a means to an even greater goal: freedom. The pursuit of independence, to stand on one's own feet without reliance on others, is a deeply human yearning, one that has shaped the paths of civilizations and individuals alike.

In the ancient world, independence was considered a key pillar of a person's dignity. The Greeks, especially those in Athens, valued self-sufficiency above all. The ideal Athenian citizen was one who could support themselves and contribute to the wellbeing of the city-state. This was the foundation of their democracy, a society that allowed its citizens to engage in political life because they were free from the need to serve a master. To live in independence was to live in freedom, to control one's own destiny. Seles's words echo this ancient wisdom: money, when used wisely, is not just about acquiring wealth, but about securing the freedom that comes with being in control of one's own life.

The story of Cincinnatus, the Roman general, is a powerful example of independence. Cincinnatus was a farmer who was called from his fields to serve as a dictator during a time of crisis in Rome. After leading the Romans to victory, he could have seized power and ruled, but instead, he chose to return to his humble farm, leaving behind the riches and authority. His decision to return to independence—to live without the trappings of power—was a reflection of his inner strength. Cincinnatus understood that true freedom comes not from accumulating wealth or influence, but from the ability to walk away from them and live according to one’s own values. Seles speaks of independence in a similar light: money, if acquired, should not bind you but set you free.

In the case of Seles, money was not just about wealth for its own sake; it was a means to maintain independence. The struggles she faced as a professional athlete and the mental and physical challenges that followed her traumatic experience of being attacked on court provide the backdrop to her understanding of freedom. When Seles was injured and sidelined, she faced the threat of losing her career, and with it, her financial independence. In recovering, she sought not just to return to tennis, but to regain the independence that money can provide—the freedom to make her own choices, to live without fear of relying on others. Her understanding mirrors the wisdom of the ancients: independence allows one to live with dignity and self-respect.

Consider the example of Queen Elizabeth I, who, though born into the wealth and power of royalty, understood the deep importance of independence. She chose not to marry, rejecting the offers of foreign princes, knowing that doing so would compromise her sovereignty and the autonomy of England. In this choice, she secured not just her own independence, but the freedom of her kingdom. Her reign was marked by the flourishing of England as a global power, and it was her decision to remain independent that ensured the lasting legacy of her reign. Seles, in her own way, reflects this belief in independence—to be in control of one’s life and future, to chart your own course without being beholden to external forces.

The lesson from Seles's words is clear: money in itself is not the goal, but rather a tool to secure independence—the ability to stand alone and define your own destiny. Independence is not just the ability to support oneself, but the freedom to choose your own path, to make decisions based on your own values, not out of necessity or external pressure. It is a form of strength that comes not from external validation, but from within, from knowing that you are the master of your own life. Whether through money, work, or personal choices, independence is the foundation of dignity and true freedom.

So, O children, let these lessons guide you as you walk your own paths: seek independence, not as an end in itself, but as a means to live freely, to make choices that reflect your own values, and to shape your own destiny. Do not allow wealth or power to bind you, but use them to free yourself to live according to your highest ideals. Just as Seles understands that money can provide the independence to make her own choices, so too can you use the resources at your disposal to live with dignity, honor, and freedom. May your lives be shaped by the strength to choose your own path and the courage to live independently, for in independence, you will find the true essence of freedom.