Here’s why I think rich people are better off… It’s not the designer clothing or high-end furniture, the custom makeup or tailored clothing, not even the personal trainers or vacation homes.

It’s being able to pay for things that make you feel better.

Simple as that.

I don’t mean, things that simply make you feel happier–because lord knows that is ever-changing and fleeting. Not a new pair of shoes or the clutch you’ve been coveting. Not a manicure or a trip to the Bahamas. Things that literally make you feel better. Things that keep you healthy in your physical being.

Seems obvious, right? But, it’s a luxury a lot of us can’t afford.

I know that massage makes my back feel much improved. But, I’m lucky if I can afford one every few months–let alone find the time to go. I know that acupuncture and a more specialized physical therapy (the kind that doesn’t typically accept insurance) is what I need. But, I can’t shell out $150 per visit. Every time my doctor recommends some new and incredible intervention I sort of roll my eyes and stare, unblinking at the wall. Yes, please, tell me all about the recommendation that I cannot take advantage of. Aquatic physical therapy? Sounds awesome. Myofascial release for pain? Sign me up. Rolfing? Sounds like barfing but if it will help then, heck yeah!

These treatments are not things you find in typical, “we accept any insurance” facilities. Hey, I’m lucky to have insurance, I recognize that. I mean, it’s disgusting for that to be true in a first world country (and we are making some great headway on this front) but here I am still not getting the care I need to feel better. Hell, just to be out of pain for one tiny millisecond.

And so, rich people are better off. If for no other reason than the fact that they can pay for the things that will help them feel good in their bodies (and, let’s not rule out the importance of a healthy mind–psychiatrists, another benefit of having a disposable income).

Thus concludes my clear envy of the upper caste.