No one really created The American Dream, but we inherited a national charter that promised us "inalienable rights" that included happiness. Somewhere along the line the American Dream has become associated with "a consumeristic nightmare" (to quote Vanity Fair writer David Camp http://www.vanityfair.com/culture/features/2009/04/american-dream200904 ).

But there are some- my husband being one- who would argue we're at a moment of change. Given the world's economic crisis, a heightened awareness of our earth, and a new post Baby Boom generation making their mark, have our national goals for happiness begun to change? Or at least for some people?

Since the HN audience is significantly ahead of the curve, and honest about what they like and strive for, I want to ask: what makes you happy? In the short-term (day to day stuff). And longer-term: what do you aim for in your own personal pursuit of happiness? How much of what makes you happy and what you wish can be bought?

I'm also looking for people who might be interested in becoming part of my documentary project. Or at least interested in being interviewed about your thoughts on happiness or how you live via video chat. For an idea of the format, see video I just shot with a Belgian friend on her happiness list: http://faircompanies.com/videos/view/why-we-all-need-a-happiness-list/ (I will be adding more soon with video she is shooting with her handicam and emailing me via yousendit.com; I would love to have others follow suit if anyone is interested in showing off their town/home/garden/stuff/lack-of-stuff, etc).

And to get a better idea of what I'm talking about with these new American Dreamers, see my video start to the documentary http://faircompanies.com/videos/view/call-for-submissions-for-documentary-on-pursuit-happiness/

Either comment here, or you can email me directly at [email protected]

Thanks.