My diligent New York CPA send me our tax returns this morning, and I learned that in 2018 I learned less money than at any point in my life since I was 22 years old.

He told me there was good news and bad  news, I owed very little in taxes (we overpaid last year) but that I also made very little money. I told him not to feed badly for me, I have never been richer or happier or more fulfilled.

Since it took my editor nearly a year to read my last manuscript, I didn’t get any of those big book checks I used to live on (and mostly gave away during my mad period.)  Maybe he’ll find time this year.

I should say that all the money I receive from the Army Of Good for the Mansion and refugee work is kept in a separate account, is audited monthly and also regularly by my accountant.It is not mine, nor is it mine to use. And I don’t leave it lying around, I put it to use quickly.

It might be true for last year that I received almost as much in donations as I earned myself. Wow, that is quite a turnaround. And it feels right. Doing good has been good for me.

This feels quite wonderful to me and to Maria. My blog is widely read, so is Maria’s, she is selling art almost as quickly as she can make it, and I am writing – for the first time in my life – whatever I want, and in whatever form I wish. I even sold some photos this year.

I launched a radio show, am finishing another book, and we are planning a weekly podcast from Bedlam Farm (name to be decided.)

Maria laughed and said it was odd to be so happy about making so little money. But we both grasp the significance of it – we are free and happy and living the free and creative lives we always dreamed of. I just hope the car keeps running and the roof stays intact.

I wish all of you as happy a tax report as we got. It all depends on what you want your life to be. I am right where I want to be, it is a special feeling.

Money does not bring happiness, I can testify to that. Helping the vulnerable brings happiness, and I am committed to doing even more this year, with your help.

And oh yes, if you wish to contribute to the very gratifying work at the Mansion and with refugee children seeking full scholarships to good schools you can do so by donating to me via Paypal, [email protected] or sending your checks (and $5 bills) to Jon Katz, Mansion/Refugee fund, P.O. Box 205, Cambridge, N.Y., 12816.

It’s strangely wonderful to  be making less money and feeling so good.