Today at Money Reasons, I’m introducing a feature called “Reader Thoughts“.

Within this new feature, I’m going to post emails and other forms of communication that I received or gather that explains a personal take or actual personal experience on a topic that I consider worth taking a look at, to gain insight into their thoughts and experiences.

Today, I’m going to post an email I received from “S”:

Money Reasons writer – your post on wealth and sacrifices really hit it home for me today.  My response may offend some of your readers but those are my genuine feelings, you asked to hear stories.  I am not sure what you consider wealthy – but I have been in the top tax bracket for the last few years.

I was nearing this bracket as an employed professional but I entered this bracket as an entrepreneur involved in several ventures, many that turned in losses which I talk about on my blog.  Entrepreneurship involves lots of sacrifice in many aspects of ones life, social, relationships family/friends, personal interests and hobbies taking a back seat, etc. 

 

I persevered through all over the years, starting profitable businesses that pay tax. so not only do I contribute the max amount from a tax perspective, most of my businesses do the same.  I own a brick and mortar business in my community through which I have employed local citizens. the business is heavily involved in the community, often sponsoring soup kitchens, charity galas, and fund raising initiatives.

 

I also own several rental properties, all of which provide quality housing to residents in need, many of who would be considered sub prime by other lending institutions. to sum it up, the road to self created wealth involves way more than what one who hasn’t traveled the road may think. moreover, each journey is very different / unique. personally, only I know the amount of sacrifices I have made over the years. sure I am reaping huge dividends today, but I am also contributing to the larger society / community in parallel.