Happiness

     On Monday, in my Human Diversity class, we watched a documentary called "Happy." Basically, they went around to places all over the world and asked different people why they were happy. One lady was run over by a truck, she had been a very beautiful woman. After the truck ran over her, her face had to be reconstructed, and she is no longer the ideal "beautiful" woman. Yet, she is happy. The documentary went to Denmark, the world's happiest country. They also went to Bhutan, this country, instead of focusing on G.D.P. is trying to bring up national happiness. 
  
     One thing that really stood out to me, is that the amount of money a person makes has little effect on his or her happiness. A person struggling to get by may not be as happy, which obviously depends on the person. But, if compared, a person making $50,000 vs. a person making $20,000, neither is happier. Basically, they found that if basic needs are covered, then the amount of money earned doesn't really affect happiness. 

     There is just one more notable thing in the documentary. They talked about religious fanatics. The example the documentary used was of Christians hating gay people. People who hate others are less happy. This is completely true. It saddened me, though, to see this example of professing Christians, not showing the love of Christ. Because it is through our faith that we have our happiness, and we should share that with those around us. Even the people whose views and lifestyles don't agree with ours. And then, I was thinking more and I wondered, is this how everyone sees Christians? As haters? If so, it's terrible. And it's also a sobering thought, am I living my life in a way that shows the nonchristians around me the unconditional love of Christ? 

     Ok, so those are a couple thoughts that have been in my mind since Monday. The documentary is really interesting and I would recommend that you check it out! It's on Netflix. 

http://www.brainpickings.org/index.php/2010/08/12/happy-movie/