Solomon’s Porch for Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Friends:
Over the last three weeks our local paper, The Detroit Free Press, has published a list of all the home foreclosures for Wayne County for 2009. Sunday’s addition made up almost a third (about eight or nine sections) of the paper. In our part of Michigan this is certainly seen as dismal news. Economists claim we are still a long way from an economic turnaround. As we continue to live through these difficult times, how are we, if indeed we are, holding onto happiness? If we are not happy, can we do anything about it?
The current issue of The Week, one of my favorite magazines, looks at this very issue. In recent years happiness has been turned into a scientific study known as “positive psychology”. More than 200 colleges now offer courses in this field, which seeks to maximize happiness both for individuals and for society at large. As we find ourselves with a need to hold on to happiness in hard times, The Week asks the following questions, which will provide the backbone for our discussion tomorrow night. The questions are:
-What makes us happy?
-How does money affect happiness?
-Why do we pursue wealth?
-Where are we left after analyzing those factors?
-Is happiness in our control?
-Can we be happier?
As people of various faith expressions, how do these questions relate to our relationship with God and others? Does our faith, as we express it, make us happy?
I will bring along the article to share with all those attending. You can read the article ahead of time by clicking here. I look forward to seeing many of you tomorrow night at First Cup Coffee House, Five Mile and Inkster Rd, from 7-8pm. As always, if you cannot make it but have something to add to the discussion, e-mail me and I will include your voice at the table.
Be blessed.
Peace,
PB
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