He made-off with money.

Judge Chin asked Mr Madoff, “How do you now plead,” guilty or not guilty? “Guilty,” Mr. Madoff responded. Bernard Madoff, the disgraced Wall St financier has done the right thing at last, and has spared time, effort and money by pleading guilty to 11 counts of mass fraud, thereby proceeding directly to sentencing in June later this year. Today, the 12^th of March 2009, Bernie Madoff confirmed his contrition and remorse as he established and admitted to orchestrating a large ponzi scheme. The scheme targeted a range of innocent investors, resulting in theft and money laundering.

I thought it only would be reasonable, to raise issue and discuss the wrongdoing of Madoff, once he was either convicted of the crime or his admission to it. The latter prevailed and the public need not endure a costly and complex criminal trial.

I am no expert as to the technicalities, illegalities and particularity of the scheme that Madoff created, developed and operated. Therefore, I will not discuss the specifics involved within the scheme. However, it would be remiss of me not to mention the disgrace, deceit and pure evil caused by the scheme. Madoff preyed upon the private investor, the public and those charitable organizations. He led a life of greed and unjustified material pursuit. Ethics and morals were not a part of his vocabulary. He maimed and injured many investors. He crippled the soul of Wall Street. The once highly regarded esteemed financier has turned villain.

There are lessons and important messages that should be disseminated so as to act as a deterrent for any future ‘someone’ who intends on using dishonesty, deceit and falsehood as tools in their life. Madoff has ruined his personal life, his family’s and the countless investors who were convinced into investing. A large prison sentence seems most probable, and questions arise as to how effective life incarceration will be. But let this be a clear message that life is to be lived by the law and not vicariously through it. Morality and ethics are of vital importance in ensuring stability and security in the world. Trust and honesty rather than fabrication and lies are most important for preserving human relationships and subsequently, in all that life has to offer.

Bernard made-off with a vast amount of money, trust and respect. We have to ensure that it does not occur again. Respect life and abide by the law, respect the world and share your righteousness.

Please feel free to suggest anything or opine on the unfolding events.