money

Surveys, Scams, and Muffin Madness: How I Gave Away My Data for a Free Pastry

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I get lots of email or text requests for surveys. from politicians looking for a donation. They give the con that they want to know how I feel about various issues. Before you know it, I’ve answered five softball questions a second grade student could answer. It’s then that I get the “We need something else, Ray. We need your financial support.” My first thought is, “How about, I need your financial support, or “I live in Texas and this isn’t my first rodeo.”

I also receive surveys from places where I shop. I use my credit card and their apps. I get a discount when I use their apps. They get get my info. I think I’m winning these negotiations. All they get is my information. I get free airline miles and a discount. Yesterday, I had lunch with a friend at a French bakery and pastry shop. I used their app. I get points for free meals and coffee. My credit card is linked to the app. When I paid for my meal, I was asked “Do you want your receipt?” Of course I do, I might get a receipt that asks me to take a survey, only five minutes it promises, and in return I get a free pastry. Visions of a bran muffins danced in my head as the cashier pushed the button for the receipt. I knew by the length of the receipt, I was a winner. I’d have my free bran muffin.

What puzzles me is are the ads I see when I watch TV., Whether it’s the content, the visuals, or both the ads are tailored made for me. I wonder where they got all the information about me.

Something to Think About

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I read the following quote by the protagonist in a novel by Terry Hayes. It gave me a chuckle and it made me think, “There’s some truth to that.” Here’s the quote: “If you want to know what God thinks of money, just look at the people He gave it to.”

Thinking Out Loud ~ What Really Makes You Happy?

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It’s Not as Important as Some Think

Saint-Exupéry writes in The Little Prince of the Little Prince visiting another planet, this planet was inhabited by a businessman. The businessman tells the Little Prince he owns the stars.

“And what is the purpose of owning the stars?” [asks the Little Prince].
“My purpose is to be rich.”
“And what is the purpose of being rich?
“To buy other stars if someone finds.
“That one, the little Prince said to himself, he thinks a little like my drunk man.”

NOTE: The things that money can buy can often bring us great joy. When money becomes our total pursuit and the possession of material things our primary goals we miss so much. We miss the joy of living and experiencing all that life can bring. We miss the relationships and joy that relationships can bring to us. We miss the joy of family life. All because we allowed ourselves to be become blinded by the illusion that things bring us happiness.

Feel Good Tip ~

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I asked the AI program ChatGPT to list 5 myths associated with happiness.

Here’s the 5 myths that ChatGPT generated. How many of these myths do you hold as true?

Here are five common myths about happiness:

  1. Myth: Happiness is the Absence of Negative Emotions: Many people believe that happiness means feeling positive emotions all the time and avoiding negative ones. However, true happiness involves a range of emotions, including sadness, anger, and fear. It’s more about having a healthy emotional balance and being able to navigate and learn from different emotions.
  2. Myth: Money and Possessions Guarantee Happiness: While financial stability can certainly contribute to a sense of well-being, the pursuit of material wealth alone does not guarantee lasting happiness. Studies have shown that once basic needs are met, additional income or possessions have diminishing returns in terms of increasing happiness.
  3. Myth: Happiness is a Destination: People often think of happiness as a future goal or a destination they need to reach. However, happiness is more about the journey and the way you approach and experience life on a daily basis. It’s not something you achieve and then maintain indefinitely, but rather something you cultivate through mindful living.
  4. Myth: External Events Dictate Happiness: Many believe that external circumstances, such as getting a promotion, finding a partner, or achieving a certain goal, are necessary for happiness. While these events can bring temporary joy, long-lasting happiness often stems from an internal state of contentment and perspective.
  5. Myth: Happiness is Selfish: Some people may feel guilty pursuing their own happiness, thinking it’s a selfish endeavor. However, taking care of your own well-being and finding happiness can actually make you more capable of helping and positively impacting others. It’s not a zero-sum game; personal happiness can lead to a more compassionate and giving attitude toward others.

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