Happiness Is Not Found In "Stuff"

I recently had the privilege of traveling to Kenya; it was an extraordinary trip of a lifetime! Most of my time was spent visiting schools. We spent time in elementary, secondary, and special needs schools. The one thing that really resonated with me was how happy and engaged the learners and teachers were, despite having very limited quantities of “stuff.”

 

If you are like me, I can’t count the number of times I have added one more item to my “wish list” thinking… then I’ll have all I need.

However, most of the schools I spent time in had dirt floors, no electricity, and no running water. Children would walk miles (some up to 7) a day to get to a school that had four tattered text books shared among 23 students. Five fifth grade boys sit all day long in a desk designed for two students, switching turns at partially hanging off the edge of the seat. Despite these challenges, they were happy and engaged learners! 

Teachers made due with no classroom decorations, teacher manuals, smart boards, white boards, or manipulatives – they used the same hole in the ground as the students for their bathroom. Despite these challenges, teachers were excited about teaching and dedicated to their students.

 

These dedicated teachers understand that good teaching does not come from having stuff, but in engaging learners in the wonder and amazement of God’s creation. These children understand that if they want a better life, education is their one chance. They have spent time and energy building relationships with each other, challenging each learner to reach to his or her highest God-given potential…and they are happy!                                                                      

What a privilege to witness this. I am so very thankful for all the comforts and toys I have been blessed with. But I need to be reminded that they are just that…blessings to be enjoyed and shared. I have not earned them and do nothing to deserve them; they are simply mine by God’s grace. That grace and mercy is the true source of our happiness. Our relationship with HIM and with the people he has placed in our life—that is the source of happiness. The constant pursuit of “stuff” will only leave me with a longer wish list, and a longing for what always seems to be missing. Lasting peace and happiness is mine, and it does not pass through the free market.

Dr. Rhoda Wolle is an Assistant Professor of Education and the Director for the Academic Success Center at Wisconsin Lutheran College in Milwaukee. Rhoda has been awarded her BS in Secondary and Primary Education, her MA in Education with an emphasis in students at risk, and her PhD in Educational Psychology.  Her areas of focus include student success and faculty professional development. Rhoda has spoken internationally to educators, parents, and teens on the topic of education. In her spare time she enjoys traveling, music, and walks with her dog.