Current rescue package, 700 hundred billion dollars, and perhaps more! Does this mean, and define happiness, survival, quality of life issues and change, or just happiness insurance-to work harder. Often, I hear from friends that if they won the Lotto, they would be happy! I have observed that many people with billions, or some of the poorer set with only millions, say that they are sad too? In response to these words of doom, and gloom, my friends, and I echo in chorus ... we could only wish to be so unhappy too! Other friends would definitely like to lighten this burden of these sad folks, i.e., by taking over some these monetary burdens. Hmmm ... very empathetic indeed helping others avoid pain, and economic discomfort. In the short article below,an explication of how the political structure defines this pleasant place that people wish to attain, or escape from-golden parachute and all!-seems like almost a bait and switch act? Still very revealing for what may in part be taking place in our economic structure today-especially, when shopping and eating out may be curtailed, and limited-talk about sadness!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Happiness_economics

Bad economy or not, lousy job or not, low personal savings or not, happiness is what you build in your heart; not what the external world tries to dictate to you. Thanks for the good link, Df.

You read stories about lottery winners saying it's the worst thing that ever happened to them. Of course the ones that won and happy aren't writing any stories:) According to that map Bart, Canadians are the happiest people on earth! Congratulations

I think the cold numbs our minds to how bad our reality truly is. LOL. Such is life. I'm become happy in the last year or so and I am generally laughing at the silliness of wants, desires and other possessive emotions.

You both share some some very good views gentlemen-many cheers indeed!

Thank-you, Df. As always you are a true gentleman.