In a recent study by the University of Chicago, Americans were asked if they were very happy. Only 14% answered “yes.” That’s a 17% drop from a 2018 survey and the lowest ever recorded. Using my mathematical wizardry, I recognized that means more than four out of five of us are less than very happy.
Why we are not very happy remains a bit of a puzzle. Based on other findings, it appears that financial status is not the answer, nor race, age or where we happen to live.
As for me, I’m very, very happy. I’m blessed. I have a loving wife who only drives me nuts on occasion. I continue to banter with and love close friends who put up with me. I go to work each day and get immersed in projects I find challenging and worthy. I have four dogs who find me very desirable.
For all of us older folks, I recommend focusing on the simple things that bring us pleasure. I try to stay away from political and financial battles. I focus on flowers, cloud formations, and family and friends who bring me joy.
Just last evening, I looked up and saw a cloud formation that looked like an old locomotive blowing out white puffs of smoke.
I thought it might be taking a person to heaven. That made me very happy.