gold rush Christmas

people of today are much the same as the folks of 1849. many of them rushed off by "vehicle" (wagon or boat) seeking all the gold they could acquire, enduring substantial hardships on the trip. today, men, women, boys and girls desire to acquire wealth in some form or fashion. most of us have a list, be it on paper or a mental one of things we want or desire. (our "hardship" may just be awaking early to a flat tire on black Friday.) though each individual miner of 1849 may have sought fulfillment with wealth in gold, few ever found it. few things have changed since then.... few will find satisfaction in the material.... or just enough to tide us over until next years list can be made. many returned home in the 1800's with little more than they started with. what about the folks of today?