Money, money, money. We all want more money! This is exactly the way many Americans think today. As Americans, we are never satisfied with the bare necessities in life. Although some people are satisfied with the simple things they have and need in life, most people always want more. In America, where our nickname might be the land of freedom and opportunity; It's hard to believe that so many people think what they have isn't enough. Oh look, you just got the latest iPhone or other new phone. It's the greatest thing ever. Instant! They just released a new and improved version, what are you doing? If you're like many Americans, you're saying goodbye to that phone you just bought just six months ago. You might also be a more practical person who realizes I just got a new phone six months ago. There is nothing wrong with this phone. Why would I need the most recent version? People should understand that they don't need all these material things to stay happy. Do we, as Americans, really need all these material goods to be happy? No, we don't. People in third world countries like Ethiopia, India, Uganda, and the Philippines have next to nothing and are just as, if not more, happy than the greedy people living here in America. They are lucky if they can get what they need to survive every day. According to Thoreau, all a person really needs to survive is: “Food, shelter, clothing, and fuel.” (Thoreau). We know that we also need to have water since it is a vital necessity for living. If all we need are these simple things, then why do we go out of our way to get these things that aren't important? Why do we waste time and money on unnecessary things? If all you have... middle of paper...... they lose their job or can't find work. Those who don't have extra money learn the value and importance of the things they can have. While those who do not know what it is to struggle to achieve their goals, only achieve through things that they think will make them happy, only to use them several times and then throw them away, because they can. Americans must learn the importance of simplicity. We only need the little things in life to make us happy and after all, money can't buy happiness, can it? We are too attached to our material possessions, we just have to stop and realize what we have right now. You are alive, you are healthy, you have a wonderful and loving family, you have an education, you may have a home, you have indoor plumbing that works, and many other things that some people take for granted . If only we learned to love the simple little things, life would be better!