Henry David Thoreau Essay

The great author Henry David Thoreau once wrote, "Many men go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after." Thoreau's quote is trying to express that in life we sometimes try so hard to accomplish things and gain status that we tend to forget what we are really after is happiness. People often believe that certain things will bring them happiness such as money, jobs, and material possessions. However, after they acquire these things instead of feeling contentment they feel a sense of emptiness.

Our society is money oriented because it is necessary for every day life. We believe that money will bring happiness but the reality is it often does not. Money can bring unneeded aggravation that can cause stress not joy. People who win the lottery often do not step forward right away to claim the money. They usually wait a few days to make a plan and think over what they will do with their fortune. They know as soon as others find out about their luck, they will have many people expecting something from them. The winners begin to realize that although the money is a blessing, it can become a headache. If they do not use it wisely, they may end up losing all of their winnings.

In addition to money causing a false sense of happiness, jobs sometimes do too. Many people attend college to attain an education in a field where they can make a lot of money without giving thought if it will make them happy. If you were to ask several people what word comes to mind when they think of job it would be money. People usually try to get jobs that will give them a certain status and a hearty income. They believe that these things will bring their families happiness. However, when they are never home to spend time with their loved ones or attend family functions, they have second thoughts about what is really important. College advisors tell their students to pick a field in something they would be happy doing for free, because they should be able to get