Earlier this week in my Wellness class, we were given index cards with hypothetical questions such as: “For fifty thousand dollars, would you put down your loyal pet?” or “For twenty thousand dollars, would you go three months without showering, brushing your teeth, and using deodorant?”, and some others with extreme alternatives. As each question was asked, I began to contemplate what I would actually do given a real situation. It then occurred to me, people, especially in the current economic time, would do almost anything for money, no matter the cost. I cannot believe some people will choose material wealth over hygiene, health, and personal happiness just because they “think” they will be happier with the trade-off. Material wealth and happiness are fallacies and in almost all cases, never satisfy you. Money is not everything. Hopefully, there are some Americans that actually know personal happiness and emotional balance are more important than wealth and other material possessions.
What would you give up for thousands of dollars?
In my wellness class we did a similar activity and discussed what you would not give up in exchange for money. Most students said that they would not give up friendships, family members, and memories for money. It was interesting because everyone answers were almost the same, but when we talked about the things you would do for money, everyone’s answers spilt. Our answers were anonymous so that everyone in the class was able to express their real thoughts. Some students said that they would break laws, commit betrayal, and take part in life risking events. I agreed with Blair’s comments on how that money will not guarantee happiness and the idea that people are too obsessed with material wealth.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great post! I agree, America has way too much of an emphasis on money. I do think that everyone needs money in order to support themselves and put a roof over their head, but at the same time- I have seen more money wasted at SMU than EVER. There are kids who are 17 and 18 with unlimited credit cards. I think that is a bit ridiculous because as young and mature adults, we need to learn how to manage our own money. For 1,000 dollars I don't know what I would give up but it wouldn't be anything that I love because I am a firm believer that money DOES NOT guarantee happiness. I think that happiness comes from within.
ReplyDeleteOne of my favorite Franklin Roosevelt quotes about happiness is:
"Happiness is not in the mere possession of money; it lies in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of creative effort." To me, this means that happiness is created by your individual achievements. What is happiness to you?