“Who is rich?  He who is happy with his lot.”  The Talmud

When did you last get something that you had been wanting for a long time?  How did it make you feel?

Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to get along happily whether I have much or little.  (Phil. 4:11; NLT)

Last month, I did a short series on three guiding principles to achieve “Happiness for No Reason” from Marci Shimoff’s book, Happy for No Reason.  (See 2/13, 2/15, 2/18 DG.)  To finish out this week, I’d like to give you two “happiness blockers” from that same book.  You may find these hitting a little close to home in some respects…I know I did.

The blocker we’ll look at today is what Marci calls “The Myth of More.”  I’m sure you can already figure out the gist of this little guy.  The more I have, the better I’ll feel and the happier I’ll be.  As my Mom used to say, “Balderdash!!!”  I believe that most of us know intuitively that this is not true, and our intuition is backed up by plenty of statistics and surveys.  Money will not buy happiness!!!

Since we all know that fact, why do we so easily forget it?  Largely because we are bombarded with messages extolling the virtues of having more, having bigger, and having better hundreds of times each and every day!  There is virtually no escape unless you become a recluse to our culture.  Our whole economy seems to be built on rapidly growing the consumer demand.  With all those messages telling us that having more will make us happier, it has to erode our belief to the contrary…even if just on a subconscious level.

The remedy?  I don’t necessarily have a “quick fix.”  However,  we can begin by recognizing what is going on and consciously and purposefully take action to fill our mind with the truth.  Take the time to reflect on the last time or two you satisfied that urge to acquire something because you knew it would make you happier.  How long did the new-found happiness last?  I can’t deny that it is a constant battle, but the more you can fill your mind with thoughts of gratitude the less susceptible you will be to fall prey to the Myth of More.  Remember that happiness and contentment is an inside job and will never come from the outside in.

Prayer Power
Lord, forgive us for those many times when we get caught up in the “I need more” syndrome.  Thank You for being the supplier of all of our needs.

Link of the Day
Money Won’t Buy You Happiness

Blessings on you as you write in your “gratitude journal” today.