This posting does offer much food for thought. I personally don't choose to make or drop friends simply because of how much money they make or lose. I don't think money alone makes people evil. Sometimes systems corrupt people yet, even so, only if they permit this to happen. They have choices.
I naturally spend more time communicating with people whose values and principles I share. People I've known for years have experienced significant financial ups and downs. This has also related to imbalances and fluctuations in other areas of their lives.
I do agree that the people you choose to be around tend to be compatible with who or what you aspire to become. Mentors are like that. They spend time with you because they see part of who they once were in you and they wish for you to achieve. Ask yourself why professional athletes become coaches. Its not necessarily for money. They don't think its evil for aspiring athletes to take stpes to move up the ranks. Coaches help them to earn more money.
Successful people inspire you to achieve. Part of fulfillment for wealthy people can be helping you develop the skills and wherwithall to do the same thing. Why did Bill gates help Apple? It was in his interest that that company didn't sink. Gates still likes to know what Apple is developing, but not because he wishes to sabotage. Why is Bill Gates, the wealthiest man, admired by many people? He re-invests billions of dollars into foundations and programs to improve literacy and education around the world. He is always giving back to society. It would be rather shallow to choose friends or colleagues solely based on seeking things from them. Of course this happens, but I wouldn't generalize to say all people with wealthier friends are jealous and resentful and simply want without giving things back.
I sense the value people contribute to society is being directly related to their personal wealth creation. Wealth comes in different forms. Its said that once you discover and develop your passion inways that give back, the money will come. You will not have to chase after it.
"He who loses wealth loses much; he who loses a friend loses more; but he that loses his courage loses all."
-Miguel de Cervantes |