Happiness Happiness

Happiness, happiness, the greatest gift that I possess
I thank the Lord I've been blessed
With more than my share of happiness

 So sang Ken Dodd in a simpler era.

I heard this morning on the BBC early propaganda broadcast that an organization called Action for Happiness has just been launched. Sponsored by a somewhat bizarre mix of The Dalai Lama, Carol Ann Duffy and Alain de Botton.

I will restrain my cynical tendencies with regard to the coincidence of Cameron’s previous vacuous uttering’s about a happiness index being as important as financial ones and I will try to put aside thoughts of fake charities, vested interests and social diversions.

I will also assume that their image of happiness does not consist of us sitting around and gently exercising on the weed free grass outside our zero carbon eco-caves watching the pretty windmills turn lazily in the warm breeze, smiling as we eat our salt reduced, low fat, allergen free, non-alcoholic 5 a day meals.

Maybe their idea of happiness is similar to mine, a society where people have maximum freedom, where their wishes are respected and where people show respect for and a lack of interference with, one another and other life choices. Somehow I doubt it, and their ten keys to happier living do little for my confidence, but until my cynicism is confirmed I’ll wish them well.