#9 Values...

The results of the test showing that Nigeria, Mexico, Venezuela, El Savador, were some of the happiest countries in the world honestly did not shock me.



For some it may have seemed a little odd, and some may have not understood why the survey showed this, but to me it seems pretty obvious.



In North America, and other wealthy countries, we beleive that we are happy, we can make our lives as happy as possible, but in reality we are a product driven society. We get an Ipod nano, 3 weeks later we want the Ipod touch. We get a working cellphone. A month later we complain that it doesn't work right and that it's a piece of crap, and we start talking about upgrading to a Blackberry or an Iphone.

Why? Because, we keep thinking that by doing this, will be more proficent, equalling to be able to have a happier lifestyle. Which is never the case. Because sooner rather then later, something has upgraded, or a new product has come out, and with advertisements being shown, we are then lead to believe that it will "help better our lives". Which in some cases it does, until the next best thing comes out.



Where as in Nigeria, Mexico, Venezula, and El Savador, they don't have such luxuries. They don't worry about what Ipod is new, and which one is coming out in a couple of months. They don't complain if their cell phone doesn't work properly, or doesn't recieve a text message fast enough, they feel lucky just to even own one and have it work at all.

They now the simple ways of life, and what they have to do to survive. They very rarely get to indulge in such luxuries to them, such as a television with three channels, some don't even get to do that at all.

They are happy no matter what the circumstances, cause they know what the true core values of living are. Being able to get clean water, food, some form of shelter. They are greatful for the small things and and apprecative of anyone who is willing to help.

They have stronger family ties, and learn to be greatful for everyday they live.



All these things are what we've forgotten in wealthy countries, we just keep expecting more and more, which is what takes away from the pure form of happiness.