When a man is young, being handsome, playing basketball well, excelling in academics, and even having a good heart can make him likable. This is the privilege of youth. However, upon reaching middle age, the only standard by which others evaluate you is whether or not you have money.
If you have money, you can still attract young girls, gather friends, and live lavishly, with a wise wife and obedient children. Living a life where you're the center of attention, others must listen when you speak.
Without money, your wife and children may disdain you. If you buy expensive cigarettes, your wife will scold you; if you try to educate your children, they won't listen. When you gather with friends, you can't even speak loudly.
Youth is like a tide; when it recedes, only then do you realize who is swimming naked.
