Another simple observation about life that serves as a valuable lesson for living well is the concept of fortune. It is very common for someone to become rich by chance, but usually that wealth disappears as quickly as it appeared. The wise person values fortune gained gradually through daily effort. The teacher of wisdom applies this daily effort to the realm of spiritual wealth; wisdom is the most incredible treasure, it is the tree of life, the source of life. Conversely, those who reject it will only face misery and shame (18a).
