Text: The Grass isn’t Always Greener on the Other Side

“I [the subject] really do like to live by those words. We have so many examples of envying someone else’s position in life or lamenting a path you didn’t take, and then ultimately learning that those alternate scenarios are not as rosy as they appear. One good example is how I was always envious of our family friends who lived in a big house with a beautiful pool and a seemingly perfect life. However, as I got older I learned that their lifestyle came at a cost. Their father was on the road all the time, hardly got to see any of his children’s sporting events, and missed out on countless family dinners. In the end, I learned that long roadtrips in the family car and small motel rooms provided us with so many good memories that I would never trade.” – MK

This is a popular Western proverb about the importance of gratitude. While my subject is neither the first nor the last person to ever use it, it still preaches an important message. Those who use the proverb use it as a reminder to quell one’s envy, for things are never as perfect as they appear. As my subject describes, the people who outwardly present “better” or more successful lives are often finding that professional success at a great social cost. 

In reality, this proverb goes beyond the simple dichotomy between professional success and family values. It refers more largely to the idea that nothing is as it seems and that one ought to have a greater appreciation for what they already have. In such a materialistic modern culture, it often takes ancient proverbial wisdom to ground us in the happiness that exists right in front of us. In preaching this message, it goes hand in hand with the proverb “comparison is the thief of joy.” They both warn against the dangers of envy and reinforce the idea that everybody should be grateful for the good that is already in their lives.