Money and its Effect on the Human Personality

Today, I met a professional driver for the film-making industry whose principal focus is stunt-work.

Somehow, we got to talking about the many movie stars for whom he’s worked over the years, and how pleasant most of them are to be around.

He started by mentioning Kevin Costner.

“I really like him,” I said.  Please tell me he’s not an asshole.”

“Oh no; he’s a prince,” my new friend replied.  “I also do the driving for Jay Leno’s show about his massive garage full of vintage cars.  He’s even kinder. When we’re having lunch between shootings, he’ll often come up our table and ask if we need another Coke or two. Maybe desserts?”

We eventually got around to the stars who are, in fact, assholes.

“I drive in Lethal Weapon 4,” he began.

“Let me make a stab.  Mel Gibson?”

Yes.  One of the most hateful, most miserable people you could meet in 100 lifetimes.”

“That’s the rumor everyone’s heard,” I responded.  “It’s weird how people who have more money that God feel the need to be such terrible people.”

“Well, my theory is that money doesn’t change people; it only amplifies them.”

I remind him of Henry Ford’s observation above.

Great conversation.