Gifts and Protecting One's Value

We would never be able to consider someone a close friend if they paid us whenever we hung out with them. The money would establish a natural separation, because it would create a dynamic that was transactional. Money can allow for connection where there wouldn’t be one otherwise, but money is ultimately a weak bond. My wife and I don’t pay each other with currency to take care of the kids or to do chores. This would be offensive and for good reason.

A transaction involving money would make it almost impossible to move beyond superficialities and into a real relationship. One where the people could share themselves in meaningful ways. This is because relationships are inherently about giving the gift of one's energy and attention, and this gift is priceless. There is no dollar amount that could justify such a precious resource as one's time, psyche, and emotional labor. So, giving these things to those we deem worthy is the only way one's life can maintain its proper value. Charities, friendships, etc. are worthy of this kind of the immeasurable investment.

Art necessarily must maintain the status of a gift in the same way. There is never an appropriate sticker price if it's true art. This is probably why so many artists are willing to be starving artists. It doesn't mean money can't be made by what’s created though, but all art needs to begin as a gift to the people that understand the cost of the creation and are moved by it. Anyone who omits the gift is simply looking for a deal to remain unattached. Something the world needs less of.