Money Can’t Buy Happiness

I began piano lessons when I was six years old . From the moment my fingers
touched the keys I held tight to a love for music that helped carry me through
some of the worst times in my life.  One of the first little ditties I managed
to play on my own was, “Money Can’t Buy Happiness”.  I can still hum the exact
tune, complete with the appropriate halting as my tiny hands tried to extend all
the way down the scales. 

The meaning of this masterpiece isn’t so clear cut as the title implies. The first half of song details all the things that money can’t buy (ie. love) and every other sentimental cliché imaginable.  The second half of the song, however, takes a complete turn.  As the notes wind down to a slow pace, the lyrics then indicate what has become painstakingly obvious in my own life. ” But of one thing I am sure, Money doesn’t make you poor. Money doesn’t make you sad. Money can’t be ALL THAT BAD!”. Money may not be able to purchase happiness in the literal sense…but it could pay for my schooling, a hot tub for my patio and a very early retirement. Most importantly, money could buy my peace of mind, and in doing so, my own personal happiness!