The price of Happiness

I hear it all of the time, but I've never quite felt comfortable with it. A parent receives news from their child that should be met with disapproval, but instead they're told the famous "whatever makes you happy" phrase or "All I've ever wanted is for you to be Happy". Happy. Not good, not kind, not respectful, not even successful, just "Hey, whatever makes you happy". Am I the only one that sees a problem with this? People are always debating the cost of fame, the cost of success, even the cost of love, but what about the price of happiness? Is happiness or should happiness be our first and only goal in life? Of course everyone wants to be happy. We were not created for miserable lives, but the Bible clearly states: seek ye first the kingdom of God and all these things will be added unto you. Seek God first, not dreams, not goals, not ambitions. What if a child's temporary happiness causes his eternal demise? What if His personal pursuit of happiness not only severs him from God's true plan for his life, but also costs the fulfillment of happiness for the lives of others? Is happiness the First thing that we should be teaching, or should it be that we receive merit and fulfillment when we do things the way that God intended. It is a hope and faith in God and that helps you to stand when times are tough. When you only seek your own contentment, where can you turn when you're in trouble? Parents, it is our job to give our children wise counsel, this includes sometimes not supporting a dream or pursuit that goes directly against God's Will and his Word. If we TRULY love our children, we'll let them know: I love you, but I can't support that decision. No matter what age your children are, they need to know that they have a solid foundation and support system that will guide them through life, not only for their happiness, but for their good. Children are born testing boundaries, they are always asssured when they know how far that they can go. Boundaries are not only meant to keep children from things, but also to protect what's within. Joy should be a focus for any family, but it should also be balanced with safety and responsibility. Happiness should not be taught as a goal, but rather a lesson, something that is achieved during or after the right decision has been made. Just a thought.