In Compendium of Training, Shantideva cited many sutras in describing a specific attitude: a king or an entrepreneur who has bodhicitta will think his wealth does not belong to him. He is merely a custodian who is responsible for discharging or distributing the wealth in such a way as to benefit sentient beings.

If bodhicitta is absent, wealth and worldly possessions are all causes of suffering which hinder us in our pursuit of liberation.

如果没有用菩提心去对待，世间的钱财都是害人的痛苦之因，它会让我们不得解脱。

Second: Contemplate Present Happiness Doesn’t Come by Easily

At the same time, we should think: although all that is defiled or tainted is the cause of suffering, I enjoy a quiet and relatively happy life now because of the merit I accumulated in past lives; this happiness does not come by easily. The sutras state that true and unparalleled good fortune in the world is to be able to live a relatively good life and have the opportunity to listen, reflect, and practice the Dharma at the same time. It is exceptionally rare to find people in samsara who fulfill both conditions.

We should know it is not unusual or special to be a high official, business tycoon, or social elite. In the six cyclical realms, the celestial beings, azuras, and some of the hungry ghosts have wealth and possessions which are immeasurably greater than that of human beings. Although the rich have substantial wealth, they lack compassion and the wisdom that comes from listening, reflecting, and practicing the Dharma. From the standpoint of Dharma practice，they are deprived and unfortunate.

By comparison, we can see how well off we are; hence we should first exchange our blessings for the Dharma and then exchange the teachings for a deeper and more lasting happiness. In this way, happiness and the practice can become mutually beneficial.