I was very interested in what you said, because I think that the statement itself is true, but it didn't feel completely accurate to me. FEEL being the keyword here. I think it lacks a certain emotional quality that might not be verifiable. So, before you read on, just know that I agree with your statement, I just think for me (and I think many other people) its not that simple. I'm really not looking to get into an argument either. I agree with you, I just think theres another perspective out there as well, and its not that cut and dry (at least not for me).
I actually googled the phrase and found a money magazine article that discussed the relationship between money and happiness. They said it obviously exists, why else would any of us work? The article stemed from an add for an expensive can that said "
"Whoever said money can't buy happiness isn't spending it right."
The article then asked if it was true.. if money = happiness.. how come your "401k, five bedroom apartment and promotion" (their words .. not mine) don't cheer you up?
And to be honest, it goes into great detail, and I'll spare you the long story. But I think the point I'm trying to get at (very slowly and painfully) is that, yes in the real world money can get you to a certain place. But...
"Money can help you find more happiness, so long as you know just what you can and can't expect from it."
Which I find to be completely true. I went abroad last summer to Europe. I saw some cities and it was very exciting, but it paled in comparison to a trip to disneyworld with my loved ones. At least in an emotion connection type way.
This is certainly not true for everyone, but for me, the memories I made there are so important to me, I wouldn't trade it for any foreign city in the world. The feeling I get when I see spectromagic with my DBF or his family, is the same I shared with my high school friends, elementary school friend and family, and that feeling could never be bought from me. Seeing the cities was wonderful, but I didn't get an emotional connection with anything there. I'm sure I could make new memories some place else, but it wouldn't be disney. The service, the attractions.. that magical feeling that disney can provide in every aspect of its parks.. I've never seen that any place else. The feeling I have with my family and friends, the connection it gives all of us to our childhood, it can't compare any where else..
But thats just me...