When we overly invest in needless material possessions, we sacrifice something. Usually, it's genuine happiness.

We are bombarded by influences and distractions that threaten to sabotage any hopes of accomplishing personal goals..With so much to do and acquire, true happiness can become an afterthought. Although we might increase our material wealth, we don't always increase our happiness. True happiness is a state of mind that grows from within.

To be human is to live in a state of spiritual flux. Change is inevitable, so our desires are certain to change. Ever wonder why you feel happy one day, disturbed or sad the next?  Ever wonder why you desire who you like until someone different comes along? And why is it, the more you take, the more you want? If you had twice as much income as you do now, would you pay off bills and live within your means or would you feel justified to acquire twice as many possessions?

Most of my life I  heard that money is the root of all evil, but I quietly disagreed. Now, I understand how money, at least too much of it, can sabotage happiness. According to research, money creates happiness only up a certain income level. While we might relish the notion of being a billionaire, studies indicate more is not better once our needs and a few desires are fulfilled.

I recently watched a television show which offers a glimpse into the homes of people so wealthy it was beyond comprehension. I began to feel overwhelmed just looking at their trappings--fifteen cars all the same color, grandiose oceanfront penthouses with the most exquisite designer furnishings, sliding glass floors, high-rise garages with scenic views for cars and yachts, and of course, room service offered anytime day or night, . It was hard to conceptualize the lavish lifestyles which included the ability to take a three-year honeymoon or make a decision to sell a property and relocate to a mountainous environment because the dog didn't like the Florida heat.

As the cameras rolled, highlighting each expansive room in several privately owned penthouse properties, I finally became bored with the many choices which except for the landscape, reflected magnificence and sameness.  I tried to imagine myself a world traveler, jetting in and out on a weekly basis, hiring caretakers for the pets, packing and unpacking the family, drinking expensive wines and dining with the wealthiest. Yet, with the constant routine of being surrounded by choices, trappings, and travels, I don't think my life would be better, just different. In fact, I might miss making plans, setting goals, and rejoicing when financial goals were accomplished.

Watching that television show, I realized something new about myself: I would not want to be rich and famous. I wouldn't want to step outside of that natural state of spiritual flux which promotes spiritual growth. Up to a certain point, money correlates directly to our state of well-being, but when we overly invest in needless material possessions, we sacrifice something. Usually, it's genuine happiness.