Would that this were true.
"Kindness and empathy will bring you more respect than horsepower and handbags ever will."
I see it not. It does provide a measure of self-respect but others often miss acts of kindness and empathy and often if noticed are interpreted as a sign of weakness or foolishness.
Don't judge a book by its cover but you only get to make a first impression once.
You have to balance wealth with riches. "The smoker you drink the player you get." You don't want to be all show and no go but you still want to put on a show, just make sure it is matched with the necessary go. A grand facade is great on someplace nice but is embarrassing on a shack.
I am sure I would be less lonely if I had displayed a little more of my wealth along the way. Even faux friends can be entertaining.
TEK