So I was looking at the latest article that profiles the happiest countries in the world, and Denmark again is number one followed by Finland at number two; two Scandinavian nations which combine quality of life with a good work/play balance.
How does that philosophy occur in an entire nation? It is one thing to discuss Living Simple in selected families, or even one small town or community, but an entire country? Obviously the nation itself, from the government down throughout the entire social fabric of the country, must be committed to this simple lifestyle.
Do political leaders in Denmark look at every decision based on how it will affect the lifestyle in Denmark? Do they do that in Finland?
This seems so foreign to me because here in the United States it is a rare political leader who thinks of life quality as first and foremost in the decision-making process. Of course, when you consider the number of social problems we have in the United States, perhaps you could draw some rather obvious conclusions, starting with maybe our leaders should be concerned with quality of lifestyle?
Thoughts to consider this morning while I do more research on Finland and Denmark; maybe those would be great countries to retire to.
The Art of Living Simple 
Bill, maybe that is why Trollbeads originated in Denmark, because these beautiful beads are a sure sign that life is indeed a happier and simpler place to reside. Nicely d=stated though and would be interesting in learning more about this.
Interesting thought Janine; the leading countries in the category are from the same part of the world…..Made mentioned a great social security program in Finland, which would give a feeling of security and safety for sure.
Thank you my dear; glad to see you survived another Saturday!
I am sure you are totally right about the social security program in Finland (god knows it has to be better then what we have at this point). And I also am glad to have survived another Saturday, lol 🙂
This kinda freaked me out because I was pondering the whole Denmark-happiness issue yesterday. Do we have a telepathy thing going here? lol I think it’s interesting that they pay something like 60 percent in taxes, yet have a low poverty and crime rate. I think the moral of the story is: greed leads to destruction and compassion leads to abundance.
Liz, I think your summation is perfect. There are a number of successful models that we can learn from, if we are willing to learn. As for that telepathy thing….hmmm…maybe it’s just that great minds think alike. 🙂
You know what else the Scandinavians do? Treat teaching as a profession to be proud of. They compensate their teachers well and only the best of the best can get certified! Treat teachers with respect, create a better learning environment, and who knows what will follow!
What a wild concept that is, Natasha! It will never fly….treat teachers with respect? That almost sounds Communist! Well, I happen to agree completely with you my dear.
I like what Liz said up there: greed leads to destruction and compassion leads to abundance. I think I’m supposed to live in Europe. Maybe someday I will.
But, my husband and I were talking about this very thing last night: as long as I don’t owe gobs of taxes – that would freak me out – I’m always willing to pay more taxes to ensure that people are taken care of, that we have systems in place for people who need help, that there isn’t a 725% disparity of income between a CEO and the average worker…I do hope the tide will turn. What is wrong with this country? Greed is ripping us apart, I’m afraid. I hope we get a clue before we are a house divided. 🙂
Cyndi, I don’t know what I could add to what you already wrote. I agree….totally…..and it sickens me.
Interesting post and responses. Ditto on what Cyndi said. Very well put. I’ve heard that a lot of European countries citizens are happier because they don’t have to worry about health care and retirement, as it is provided for them. I don’t know if that is the answer, but it sure would ease some stress!
Vicki, I sense that has a lot to do with it. Whatever the reason, it seems to me that their lifestyle is worth studying. Thanks for dropping by my friend; greatly appreciated.
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