Today, it seems like the world we live in is held together by material objects. Every aspect of our daily lives revolves around “stuff.”

When we wake up in the morning, the first thing most Americans will do, even before getting out of bed, is reach over and check our $200 iPhones.

Once we realize what time it is, we jump out of bed and dress ourselves in expensive brand name clothing.

Finally, we walk out of our multi-million dollar mansions and walk to our car that’s worth just as much.

Right now you’re probably saying, “Yeah right, I wish, that would be my ideal life.” But that’s just it, why does the ideal American life have to revolve around material objects?

Everyone has heard the saying “You can’t buy happiness.” However, many Americans would love to argue that point. We have a bad day and think a shopping spree will make us feel better. Or we have a successful day and we think the best way to reward ourselves is to buy an expensive purse, a pair of sneakers or head to a pricy restaurant for dinner.

But we all know deep down that those things won’t bring us everlasting happiness or change our lives.

Today, most kids simply expect their parents to buy their way out of boredom with trips to the mall or costly vacations. The term “spoiled brat,” which used to be among the worst of insults to both a child and their parent, is now printed on a t-shirt and worn with pride.

Why are there so many less fortunate people and nations when we have so much? The answer is sad and simple; ignorance and greed.

Why do so many of us change the channel when the commercials of the starving children in Africa come on? Because we don’t want to face reality and realize how good we actually have it. Some people go as far as saying, “It’s not me or my family or even my country, and therefore I don’t need to worry.”

New products are constantly being invented and fashion statements are being made. The average American woman spends $780 a year on clothing and $220 a year on shoes.

How much would you spend to see your favorite band or sports team? Ticket prices to see Miley Cyrus cost up to $800, Beyoncé’s prices are not far behind at $730 and the top price for a Super Bowl ticket rings up to a ghastly price of $2,600.

I’m not saying you should never buy anything ever again. All I’m saying is to spend in moderation and be thankful for what you do have.

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