Success or Happiness
Illumination
James Elliot, a reporter for the National Globe teased, “You are successful, wealthy, and smart, yet none of your four children have followed in your footsteps. Why not? It doesn’t bother you that you have no heirs to take over when you die?
Charles Goodwin eased in a mischievous smile and taunted back, “Do you have children?”
“I asked you first,” the reporter shot out trying to read his expression.
Nodding, Mr. Goodwin relates, “You will get your answer, just answer mine.”
“Ok,” the reporter said taking out his phone, “Yes Sir, I have a 4-year-old son, and a 5-year-old daughter, here they are,” showing Mr. Goodwin pictures of his children on his phone.
“Beautiful, happy, children. Which would you rather for them, success or happiness?” Mr. Goodwin asks looking at the pictures.
Staring into his eyes, James saw a flicker of pain that quickly disappeared, then said nodding in agreement, “Success for me, happiness doesn’t pay my bills,” putting his phone back.
“You are not a smart man, Mr. Elliot; you made the wrong choice. Success doesn’t bring happiness, but happiness brings success.”
Shocked at the reality, James remained silent.
“You see son, my children chose happiness because they have seen what success has done to me. They love their father, but they love happiness more. Being happy gives us the power to do things success doesn’t. Happiness is like water; it is the main ingredient in almost everything that is made and created in our world. We can’t survive without water, and we can’t be at our best without happiness. It brings out the best in us and makes success sure. Happy people live better and longer, and they do better too. Success isn’t caused by anything simple, but happiness is. I rather have happy children, who are satisfied with their lives, than successful children, who are unhappy. Happiness is power son.”
This was inspired by my sons wanting to drop out of college after the first year. They know the value of a good education, but they also know the value, strength, and power in happiness. They knew what they wanted. They wanted to do something that they love to do, and earn an income from it. It takes strength to know what you want, and the power to go after it. But, allowing children to make their own life decisions is good. I am still learning from children.
Thank you for reading this piece. I hope you enjoyed it.