Happiness is Out there Just Waiting to Be Found

According to Eric Weiner, the author of a book called The Geography of Bliss, eight out of ten Americans think about their happiness at least once a week and I admit that I am one of those Americans that reflects on my happiness daily. The formula for happiness is comprised of various aspects for all different types of people and for some location is an important factor when considering overall happiness. Weiner feels that location and happiness are connected and in his book he is on a search for the happiest country in the world. He comes across interesting research and facts when visiting the World Database of Happiness in the Netherlands. Although Weiner was skeptical and negative about what the country would be like prior to visiting, he usually left the country with positive feelings and a much clearer understanding of the word happiness. Overall, I would rank my happiness on a scale of one to ten as an eight and the factors that contribute to my happiness are my location, family, and friends.

            I live in the United States and my location contributes to both my happiness and unhappiness. The United States constitution allows for the freedom of speech and religion, allowing me to become a unique individual. I feel that the diverse population that makes up the United States makes Americans more content because they can express their opinions without being judged or harassed by the government. Also because America is “the wealthiest country in the world” (Weiner 310), basic survival is not an issue for the average American. According to Weiner, once a person’s basic needs are met their happiness will only increase slightly even if material prosperity increases dramatically. I think material wealth has replaced human connection in the United States because now people buy high tech computers and other devices, leaving no time for one on one in person discussion. It amazes me that some parents try to make up for time not spent with their children by purchasing them new gifts like a video game or iPod. In contrast, a person living in Bhutan would never turn to material objects in search of happiness because they believe in a simple way of living. Although I dislike the excess material wealth in America, I would prefer to live with all of my luxuries like organic coffee beans rather than settle for instant coffee in Bhutan. This example relates to when Weiner said,  “One man’s paradise can be another’s hell, and the converse holds true as well” (314).

            In addition to location, my family back home in New Jersey creates a safe haven for me to fall back on in times of distress. My parents support me in everything I dream of doing, struggle to do, and excel in completing. For example, my dad attended every soccer game I ever played in and he was always the loudest person cheering on the sidelines whether I scored a goal or just passed the ball. Weiner states, “since 1960, the divorce rate doubled” (310) in the United States and I feel fortunate that I do not have to deal with tension between my parents. Also, I believe that being healthy plays a big role in happiness because in most instances the cause of sickness is out of human control. Lastly, my friends make me laugh and keep me company. I call them to discuss my problems, silly stories, or current events. I agree with Weiner when he stated that Cubans tend to be happy even in poor conditions because they care greatly about their family and friends, forming a tight knit community.

Overall, I would consider myself as part of the 84% of Americans that describe themselves as “very” or “pretty” happy because of my patriotic spirit towards my location and the support and love from my family and friends. Whether it is clean toilets, drugs, five star hotels, or sandy beaches that make a person happy, happiness is out there just waiting to be found.