Over the last few years there’s been renewed interest on the topic of what makes people happy (or happiness studies).  “Renewed” is probably the wrong word since humans have been chasing fulfillment and happiness since we picked up traits such as language, consciousness, and the need to write things down and keep records.  The interest in happiness I’m talking about […]

(photo: by Piero Morello. getting confirmation on the body of water, but I believe it’s the Stretto di Messina) One of the most satisfying moments associated with the warm weather months is the immense existential euphoria or perception of sun (temperature and sight), wind (hearing and touch), and scent (smell).   Take today, for example, it’s 83°F and sunny in the northeastern […]

At times, I think the political and cultural columnist David Brooks has a little bit of Mediterranean blood flowing through his body (regardless of his Anglo-Saxon appearance).  Time and time again Brooks puts together elegant arguments on the paradox of American living, why gun control is necessary, or, say, how most people struggle to find happiness.  While I don’t agree […]

I recently had a guest post on PimpYourFinances.com and the entry dealt with critical questions every twenty something should ask him or herself if they’d like achieve goals and lead a quality life.  Here’s an excerpt: If you’re a Twenty-something consider yourself very lucky. You’re probably healthy, super educated (only about 26 percent of Americans have a bachelor’s degree), full […]

They say that money can’t buy happiness and I certainly agree.  However, did you ever stop to think about what money can, indeed, buy? Here is a list of ten things that money can help you buy: 1.  Money can buy peace of mind.  Do you have trouble sleeping at night because you are worried about bills or your current […]

  (photo: the Scordo and Latella families in southern Italy during the annual wheat harvest) Every time I travel to Europe (especially outside of the big cities) I notice that the stress level tends to be much lower than what we have here in the US (regardless of city or town).  Yes, big city folks tend to always be on […]