As your investment returns, your returns will begin to gain as well.  This allows you to turn a measly dollar into thousands of dollars if you leave it invested long enough.

Thus, the more money you save and invest today, the more money you will have in the future for retirement, college tuition, a new car, etc.

The Beardstown Ladies offered up a recipe for real wealth: 1 cup of awareness, 2 cups of willingness, 1 teaspoon of knowledge, 1 tablespoon of research, and 1 teaspoon of ability.  Add a dollop of enthusiasm.  Season with miracle of compounding and patience.  Simmer with time until all ingredients are well blended.  Flavor will smell of real wealth.