We are all guilty of this to some extent. We want it all. That is what our American society teaches us from day one. We teach our children that the most important thing in life is getting a really great paying job that will in turn allow us to have unlimited playthings.

It really is a sad situation. It is true that we need money to live. However, we exaggerate how much it takes to live. We teach our kids that living good is when you have enough money to buy the biggest house and the best car. It doesn't matter how we get there, as long as we do.

Often times we forget to add the other things into the equation when discussing what will bring us happiness. Here is my list of things that made me happier than any amount of money in the world. The things that seem to get overshadowed by the power of money:

1. Finding that special someone that makes your heart sing. There is nothing in the world like being in love. When you find someone that treats you with love and respect, that's better than the biggest house you could ever own.

2. Having babies. I wouldn't give anything in the world for the first time I held my babies in my arms. Just looking into their eyes was better than owning the biggest diamond I could ever find.

3. Having grandchildren. Looking at their little faces for the first time is twice as amazing as looking at your children for the first time. I would give everything I own as long as I never had to give them up.

4. God. Without God, your money isn't worth anything at all. You might have fun while you are here, but you sure aren't going to take it with you. God won't care how much money you made. He's going to care about whether you knew and accepted him. I have a feeling that the way you behave also has something to do with it. In any case, you better worry about getting right with him. After that you will be provided with everything you need. Stop trading God in for a few extra bucks.

6. Taking long walks and bubble baths. Getting out in the fresh air or into a relaxing tub. Now that's the life. You don't have to have a lot of money for either one of these things, yet you feel so good while you are doing it. It helps clear your mind, body and soul. Who needs that big screen television when you have these kinds of things to take up your time.

7. Good friends and close family. We often leave our family and friends out in the cold when it comes to choosing between career and family. Our friends and family should never take a back seat to anything!

I have a list that is a mile long. I could go on and on about it. The above list is just a small sampling of the things that we trade in the name of prosperity. Don't you think it's about time for a change?

Learn more about this author, Dawn Hawkins.
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