Without always acknowledging it, we are operating with a remarkably grudging perspective on the meaning of life. It is for all of us to wonder about and define a meaningful existence. A meaningful life can be simple in structure, personal, usable, attractive, and familiar.

A meaningful life aims not so much at day-to-day contentment as fulfillment. We may be leading a meaningful life and yet often be discontent.

The perception is that more is better - more money, a big house, more friends, more materials, and a big vacation house somewhere. The problem is discontentment because if a person's happiness is based on those things, it will always be not enough. Simple things like food, having a roof over my head, being healthy, and enjoying activities like hiking, gardening, and family make me happy.