Help needy, be happy

The Channel NewsAsia series Don’t Call Us Poor plays a vital role in highlighting the plight of indigent people here, making us more aware that while we sometimes complain about not making enough or find the Certificate of Entitlement too expensive, others have trouble putting food on the table.

How should we respond? First, we should appreciate what we have. Surveys have shown that the happiest people in the world are seldom those flooded with material possessions and are not necessarily from nations with the highest gross domestic product.

Second, we should reach out to those who have less. There is greater joy to be had from sharing than craving the latest, greatest gadgets.

Finally, our Government must do more to aid the poor by reducing the red tape, reaching out to them at an emotional level, helping them with daily needs, making them feel they are not alone and getting everyone to chip in.

The road to happiness lies in being satisfied with what we have, keeping healthy, enjoying the fellowship of our loved ones and helping others to join us on this road.