My parents chased money and possessions - I refuse to do the same

Wednesday, 24 April 2019

OPINION: I grew up with two parents who were obsessed with money. And things. My father worked all the time. And my mother was horrid. They were never happy.

Even though they had a big fancy house, nice cars, they were never happy. I made it my goal in life to never chase these things.

The Bible says 'happy are those conscious of their spiritual need' and 'there's more happiness in giving than there is in receiving'. It's so true.

**READ MORE:

* The six things that make for a happy nation

* The key to happiness in 2019

* Happiness peaks in your 20s and hits rock bottom at 50, surveys show**

My job is giving. I am a support worker for the elderly. It pays enough for what I need and there is always extra left over.

I'm not thriving for riches and things. Less stress. More happiness.

I have two small boys. Because I don't work heaps I make it to as many school things as possible. They're happy mums there. My parents never came to anything.

My boys make me laugh, we are very close. We live a simple life, have a few pets, and try to be as kind and giving to people and each other. We are happy as.

They're my happiness. Not money, not things, not striving for a better life.

My boys are my life and happiness.

We want to know what brings you joy. Is it being kind to others, generosity, spending time with your friends, your family or your work? Is there something, big or small, that makes you happy? Is it one thing, or a combination of things? Click the button below to share your story or email stuffnation@stuff.co.nz