A Story of Wealth and Health

John Kensington, a wealthy businessman in 19th-century London, spent decades amassing a fortune. He owned textile mills, invested in railways, and lived in a grand estate. But in his relentless pursuit of wealth, he neglected his well-being—working long hours, surviving on rich but unhealthy meals, and avoiding rest. At 55, he was diagnosed with severe heart disease. His doctor told him, “All your gold cannot buy back your health.” Forced into retirement, John sought cures in European spas, hiring the best physicians, but nothing restored his youth or energy. One day, he visited an old friend, a modest farmer named Samuel, who lived simply but was strong and full of life. As they sat in the countryside, John realized that Samuel, though poor in riches, had something far more valuable—good health. That day, John uttered, “I would trade all my wealth to feel as you do.” But time had run out, proving the truth of the old proverb: good health is above wealth.