The tiny Himalayan country of Bhutan decided a while back that happiness was more important than wealth, so they established a Gross National Happiness Commission, as an alternative to the usual Gross National Product index. The effort is now being copied around the world, with surveys finding that people are happier when they feel secure, have a clean environment, good government and more free time, as opposed to just having more money.
Monday at 7:30 p.m. you can meet the secretary of Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness Commission, Karma Tshiteem, at St. John United Lutheran Church at 5515 Phinney Avenue for a “happiness discussion.” Donations are suggested.
Karma Tshiteem is in town this weekend for the Green Festival at the Washington State Convention & Trade Center. He was part of a presentation and panel discussion Sunday evening, along with Phinney Ridge resident and simplicity expert Cecile Andrews. He’ll also take part in a Q & A session at 7:30 p.m. tonight (Sunday) at 2007 NW 61st St. (Refreshments served; $10 suggested donation.)
