We've all heard the saying "money makes the world go round". Money is a necessity in life and yes, to some, a source of happiness. Most of us have to work hard to earn our money, only to see it go out the door again when we pay our bills. We need money to put a roof over our heads, clothes on our backs and food in our bellies. That's why we strive every day to stay employed because without that steady income some find themselves without life's necessities, some end up having to steal to get by or even find themselves homeless.

For some people, however, achieving wealth becomes an obsession. They feel they can't be truly happy unless they can afford everything and anything they desire. Some work very hard to reach their goals, others turn to crime. It's sad to think that to some individuals, wealth is the only thing that can make them truly happy.

I've always thought I would like to win the lottery. I imagine what I would do with millions of dollars - pay off my debts, buy a new home, a car, help out family, charities.....the list goes on. Then, reality sets in and I realize that having all that money would only cause more problems. For example, there was a couple in Quebec who had won the lottery. It was discovered that there was a plot to kill them for their money. Thank goodness they caught the guy before he was able to follow through with his plan. When you win these lotteries, your name and address are made public which makes it easier for these crazies to find out about you. I would always worry about the safety of my daughter. Another thing is that I would end up having to move and/or change my phone number because there would be "friends" dropping by or calling for hand outs. Charities from all over would be asking for donations - there wouldn't be a moment's peace. There have also been stories about lottery winners who end up worse off than what they were before winning all that money - some have ended up bankrupt. One gentleman said he wished he had never won the lottery - he would have been better off without it.

Although it would be nice to be out of debt and not have any financial worries, I wouldn't want to be wealthy. When you can go and buy whatever you want, when you want it, you don't seem to appreciate it as much. However, when you have to work hard for your money, the extras in life mean more to you. I find that my daughter appreciates things more when she buys them with her own money - she takes better care of her toys, etc. because she knows how much it took to be able to buy it in the first place. To me, money does make life easier, but it doesn't bring true happiness. True happiness comes from within and you can't buy that with money.

Learn more about this author, Wendy Brooks.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Does money really bring happiness??
We want to hear your view. Write now!