WOW! That's a lot of food for thought. I'm going to have to read it a few more times to take it all in, but thank you for posting. <br /> <br /> I searched your name and this article is everywhere. I was wondering if you are the same person who wote the article here:<br /> <a href="http://www.dailyexcelsior.com/02apr07/edit.htm">The illusion of opulence: Planning</a><br /> <br /> In any case, I hope this thread spurs a lot of discussion here and welcome to vive!<br /> <br /> <br /> <br />

   

Yes much too much for one read! Sometimes I envy the less developed nations in that they possibly have a chance to go a different route than the one we have taken because the one we are on seems to lead to hopeless. I'm grateful that I live in the woods, garden and do my artwork. If I was still in Vancouver I likely wouldn't have survived as well as I have. The time I spend on the internet is pretty limited compaired to the time I put into overloaded citytime.

   

FootPrints and 4Canada - I want to thank you for reading the article and expressing your views. FootPrints - I read the article in the link you have mentioned. The name is same but it has been written by someone else. The article examines the harmful effects of Development and I agree with the content. 4Canada - what you have said is very correct - Nature is absolutely essential for peace of mind.<br /> <br /> sushil_yadav

   

Excellent article.I read it and agree with it.We are moving too fast for our own good.I gave up on the rat race of wanting more all the time.It does stunt your emotions and thinking ability.I have also noticed that the more material stuff that people have the less happiness they have. <img align=absmiddle src='images/smilies/question.gif' alt='Question'> <img align=absmiddle src='images/smilies/neutral.gif' alt='Neutral'>

   

spud,<br /> You have rightly pointed out - there is an inverse relationship between material things and peace of mind. The more we have the less peaceful we are. Peace is experienced when one learns to control the subjective-state of mind. Peace is very different from pleasure. In the east some people realized this thousands of years ago and developed the practice of yoga and meditation to make the mind peaceful.<br /> <br /> sushil_yadav