The Top Four Most Important Things In Life

By Bob McMillan

A few weeks ago, I spoke about healthcare and the uninsured to a group of students and professors at Queens Borough Community College. There was a good question and answer period after the presentation. Then, as I was packing up my PowerPoint equipment, a young woman approached me and asked a thought provoking question, “What are the four most important things in life?”

Wow! I had never really focused on that kind of question before. I thought about the question for 15 or 20 seconds and responded, “A good education, good employment, good health, and a good family life!” Now, you may want to add other things to the list, but as I responded quickly to the question and reflected on my answer, the four items are important in all of our lives.

First, take a look at education. Research shows that people with a good education are happier and more productive. I am not just talking about a college education, because high school graduates can also gain productive careers and lead happy lives.

Of course, after one’s education, ending up with good employment is critical to our lives. Without good employment, life can be drudgery.

Next, and on everyone’s mind today is good health. While one of the most important elements of good health is a healthy life style, too many people neglect “preventive” care. Another dimension of good health relates to senior citizens. Young people tend to be invincible when it comes to health issues. But, as we age the healthy lifestyle and preventive care become even more important.

Being positive about all of the above leads to the fourth good thing – a good family life. If any of the three previous good things are lacking, the possibility of a good family life becomes quite slim.

Stepping back from the four most important things, there is one other issue which is critical and is required in all four – happiness. If we are not happy with our education, job, health, or family, life can be very difficult. A person who never has a smile probably does not enjoy life. And a smile is certainly one positive sign of being happy.

I am glad the young woman asked me that question. It caused me to think. Pausing, once in a while, can be a positive in our lives. Reflecting on the important things in our lives can help us keep our lives in order and have even happier families.

Robert McMillan is Of Counsel with Bee Ready Fishbein Hatter & Donovan, LLP. Email: McMillanR@aol.com

source: antonnews