In our pursuit of happiness, it’s tempting to believe that obtaining what we want will bring lasting fulfillment. Yet, time and again, we see that merely having more “stuff” often fails to satisfy us deeply. In the Western world – a consumer-driven society which relentlessly promotes the idea that external possessions are the answer to inner contentment – we find that more is not necessarily “more”, despite the promises of marketing efforts.
The truth is, happiness cannot be defined by what we own; it must be defined by who we are – as individuals and as a society
However, there is another layer to this concept: the importance of having basic needs met. Not having essential needs met – such as shelter, food, safety, and health – can undeniably impact one’s quality of life, creating a barrier to any pursuit of inner fulfillment or happiness. This principle echoes Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, which proposes that human needs are arranged in a hierarchy. According to Maslow, we must fulfill our basic physiological and safety needs before addressing higher aspirations like love, esteem, and ultimately, self-actualization.
The idea of meeting foundational needs before seeking higher fulfillment is also reflected in religious texts. The Bible, for instance, emphasizes the importance of meeting people’s physical needs before addressing their spiritual or emotional well-being. In James 2:15-17, it says, “Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,’ but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?” This passage suggests that practical action, in addition to good intentions, is necessary for true compassion and service.
In contrast, Buddhism offers a different approach, focusing less on satisfying physical needs and more on transcending the suffering attached to them. Buddhist teachings encourage followers to detach from the desires and cravings that often lead to suffering. While this perspective provides valuable insights, it can be difficult to apply for those who are still struggling with unmet basic needs. For most people, addressing these needs is essential before they can shift their focus toward inner peace and happiness. For those not yet in a state of enlightenment, the hierarchy of needs remains a practical framework. Without a stable foundation of security, people may find it challenging to pursue goals related to happiness or personal fulfillment.
This reality places a societal responsibility on all of us to ensure that everyone has their basic needs met. Beyond simply providing for basic needs, however, it is equally essential to encourage individuals toward self-sufficiency, helping them move toward independence and self-reliance.
Community service organizations often face the daunting task of balancing the immediate relief of basic needs with the longer-term goal of empowering individuals to meet their needs independently.
While it is important to offer immediate help, the most effective community service models approach these issues holistically, ensuring that those in need are not only temporarily supported but also equipped with the tools and resources to build self-reliance. Ultimately, it is not enough to provide food and shelter alone; there must also be a path toward growth and fulfillment, guided by wisdom and practical skills.
Only through this balanced, holistic approach – meeting basic needs while fostering growth toward independence – can we contribute meaningfully to a stronger, healthier community.
It is not enough to address just the surface issues; we must recognize the complexities of human needs and work toward solutions that uplift both the body and the spirit.
Join us in making the world a better place. You’ll be glad that you did. Cheers friends.