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Dr. Mercola
June 13 2007

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What Can You Learn From a Society With No Words For "Want" and "Worry"?

The Moken are a group of nomadic islanders who live off the coast of Thailand and Burma. What makes them special, other than their adherence to their traditional culture while the world around them changes, is that their language is lacking, or, perhaps, free, of key words that Americans use daily:
  • Want
  • Worry
  • When
  • Take
Imagine just going through one day in your life without worrying, wanting, taking or wondering “when” (now imagine a lifetime without it). Sounds like just the reprieve that so many of us here in America need.

Sure, the Moken have their own set of problems (the Burmese are turning some of their islands into military bases, for instance) but the real inspiration comes from finding that place in yourself where you are no longer yearning and wishing for something else to happen. Instead, you are happy with the here and now.

Happy, optimistic people not only live longer, but they have a better time doing it. Try giving up wanting, worrying and taking for today, and decide for yourself to be truly happy instead.

GrowFromWithin.com June 11, 2007





 
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Comment on This Article Community Comments (10)
 
 
Posted On Jun 14, 2007
The best bumper sticker I've seen says "I'd Rather Be Here Now". My other favorite is "Don't Believe Everything You Think".     ^_^

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Posted On Jun 14, 2007
....or read.

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Posted On Jun 16, 2007
The best advice I ever got--don't believe nothing you hear and only half of what you see.

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Posted On Jun 13, 2007
Amen.

WANT AND WORRY ARE INDEED CAUSAL TO A LESS HEALTHY OR HAPPY LIFE.

The reference to a different perspective to 'time', I suspect also is a key element in the sighted example perceived view toward optimum health.

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Posted On Jun 13, 2007
The Moken are content with their place in society, which is a valuable lesson for all of us.  We should all be the best person we can be and not worry about what might or might not happen.  Or what we want and can't afford.

Mary

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Posted On Jun 13, 2007
Good article. nice reminder. Her use of the Moken as a supporting parable is effective but people are people and you don't have to have a word for "worry" or "want" to experience it.
The key is to fight the innate greed and discontent that plagues a fallen humanity.

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Posted On Jun 14, 2007
It is pretty difficult in today's world not to worry if one is suffering from a chronic illness and one can not help but want to find a cure. True peace and contentment in my life came from attaining the knowlege of how to overcome my many health issues and to be freed to experience the abundant life that God has intended.  I am filled with gratitude that every breath that I take is a precious gift!  The good news is that we can find help right here at Dr. Mercola's website! 

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