Since the publication of the result of the Happy Planet Index (HPI) showing Jamaicans as the third-happiest people on Earth behind the Dominican Republic and Costa Rica, there have been many questions raised as to its authenticity. Many people, including Jamaicans, have criticised and even ridiculed the findings.

The rationale is that Jamaica has so much crime and poverty, how could it command such an astonishing position on the Happy Index? The irony is that it is for this reason many of the countries in the top ten of the report are poor South American countries and not rich G8 countries. Happiness and material wealth are not synonymous by any means. Having millions in the bank and a big house are vehicles that contribute to happiness, but it does not guarantee happiness by any means. If this were the case, why do so many wealthy people commit suicide?

state of mind

Happiness is a state of mind that can be achieved based on the expectations that one has. Some people are happy with just providing tonight's dinner for their family. Others can be miserable because they cannot purchase a shiny BMW like their neighbour's. I see many college-educated middle-class people unable to sleep at night because of the mountain of credit-card debts and superficial, unattainable and unrealistic goals. Again, to me, happiness is a mental state.

Despite the crime and poverty, tourists flock Jamaica yearly. They see something that many of us cannot see. They are wondering how people with so little resources greet them with such fervour, smiles, friendly faces and such outstanding hospitality? No wonder we say "Jamaica, no problem man".

I am, etc.,

ALVIN BUCHANAN

alvinbis@gmail.com

Sebring

Florida