I've met many rich kids over the years. Many are very down to

When Jesse Spencer declared: “I’ve met many rich kids over the years. Many are very down to earth and work hard; they come from decent parenting. Others, however, are not,” he spoke to an ancient truth disguised in modern words: that wealth does not define the soul of a child, but parenting does. Riches may gild the home, but it is the hand and heart of the parent that shape humility, discipline, and character. Without such guidance, abundance becomes a curse rather than a blessing.

The origin of this truth stretches back through history. In every civilization, the children of privilege faced a crossroads: either nurtured into responsibility and gratitude, or left to arrogance and excess. The Roman Empire knew this well, as the sons of senators and emperors were often divided between those who became wise rulers and those who became tyrants. Consider the tale of Marcus Aurelius, born to wealth and privilege, yet raised under tutors who instilled philosophy and restraint. His parenting shaped him into the philosopher-king, remembered for wisdom and virtue. In contrast, Commodus, his own son, was indulged, spoiled, and corrupted by his upbringing, becoming one of Rome’s most reviled rulers.

Spencer’s reflection reminds us that decent parenting is not about possessions but about principles. The children who remain “down to earth” despite riches are those taught that wealth is a tool, not an identity. They learn that work, kindness, and humility are the true measures of worth. But when children are left unchecked, when indulgence replaces discipline, they grow entitled, demanding, and fragile. This is why two children from equally wealthy homes can grow into such different souls: one strong and humble, the other hollow and arrogant.

The heart of his words also touches on the fear of every parent — that providing too much might weaken a child rather than strengthen them. To raise children in wealth is a trial as great as raising them in poverty. In want, a parent must protect a child’s spirit from despair; in plenty, a parent must protect a child’s spirit from pride. The challenge is different, but the stakes are the same: the formation of a soul. Spencer reminds us that wealth is not evil, nor is poverty noble by default. It is the parenting that determines whether a child becomes honorable or lost.

The lesson here, O listener, is profound: never assume that resources alone can raise a child. Riches may clothe the body, but they cannot clothe the heart. Only love, guidance, boundaries, and example can do that. A child learns more from a parent’s character than from a parent’s bank account. To give endlessly without teaching gratitude is to plant seeds that grow into weeds of arrogance. To balance generosity with discipline, however, is to plant oaks of strength and humility.

Practical actions follow: parents, no matter your station, teach your children the value of work. Give them responsibilities, however small, so they may learn discipline. Speak often of gratitude, and show it in your own life. Praise effort more than results, and kindness more than achievement. If you are wealthy, guard against the temptation to shield your children from all struggle, for it is through struggle that the soul gains strength. And if you are not wealthy, know that the greatest inheritance you can leave is character, which surpasses gold.

So let Jesse Spencer’s words echo across generations: riches do not corrupt, nor do they ennoble; it is parenting that shapes the child. The true treasure of any family is not stored in vaults or estates, but in the values passed down through love, discipline, and example. Remember always: the worth of a child is not measured by what they inherit, but by who they become. And who they become is written not in wealth, but in the wisdom of those who raised them.