In last month’s article I discussed the increased attention being accorded the study of happiness. I highlighted eight recommendations offered by psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky for achieving a life filled with satisfaction and contentment. I was pleased to receive a number of e-mails in appreciation of the article and was especially delighted and flattered by one message written by a man who had been a student in one of my psychology classes at the University of Massachusetts in Boston more than 35 years ago. It was my first position in the field of psychology. Not only did it provide me with a sense of purpose and excitement, but it represented a confirmation that I had made the right decision to become a psychologist (I had two other majors in college before discovering psychology). Thus, my teaching experience at the University of Massachusetts in Boston will always hold a special place in my career and in my heart. My former student said he was prompted to write to me after reading my February article in which I described “thanking a mentor” as one of Lyubormirsky’s recommendations for leading a more satisfying life. He thanked me for the manner in which I taught…
