From my perspective, it's much nicer to have money. My perception is that people with a lot of money are happier than ones who are not. It's not just the "toys." Always worrying about money is very stressful, and not ever having anything extra is hard. Within the spectrum of middle class, it's nice to be able to pay for medical care when you are sick, child care when you want to go out, takeout when you are too tired to cook, veterinarians when your pets are sick, car repair when your car breaks down, always have enough to pay the bills, have a cushion for rainy days, and extra for things like books, magazines, cable, newspapers, video rentals, new clothes, and vacations. It's nice to be able to go to the museums without worrying about paying for gas and parking. It's nice to be able to go to the movie and let everyone get popcorn and drinks. You may take all of that for granted, but it wasn't so long ago that we were strapped all the time, and I am much happier now.
I don't think I'd be happier with a Lear Jet and a mansion and a Rolls Royce, however. |
