Sleep-in trumps tropical island

In modern times, discoveries and inventions have become so common that there are simple machines to cope with nearly every task we have to do.

These machines, like the TV remote and the dishwasher, amuse, fascinate and intrigue us.

It's human nature to try to make our lives better. We all want to live in the lap of luxury and these machines bring us one step closer. Bigger, bolder, brighter, better.

The media temp us with tales of celeb glamour, showing us a world to aspire to - the epitome of modern life.

We all want Miranda Kerr's face (and boyfriend Orlando Bloom), Zac Efron's abs and Justin Bieber's voice.

But the celebrity formula seems to be more money = less sense.

As people earn more, they are less cautious with their money.

And why wouldn't we throw caution to the wind? More money means we have more to spend on what we love.

Having money to fall back on means we can invest our time and money into things that we enjoy.

Celebrities have interests like photography, painting, motor racing, fishing, etc.

Mel Gibson bought an island in Fiji and, to indulge his personal interest, had an eight-lane bowling alley shipped there.

Some see that as irresponsible, and this is understandable.

John Henry, owner of the Boston Red Sox, bought a $16 million home.

It was beautiful, truly idyllic, but a month later he sought permission to have the house demolished.

Those with less cash to splash are more cautious with their money.

But does that bar them from enjoying the same happiness that millionaires do?

Happiness is universal and priceless.

We all want to live like celebrities. But in modern society we are forgetting that the simple things in life are the most enjoyable.

Sleeping in, laughing, having sing-alongs, telling stories and falling in love. But then again - I would kill to own a private island.

Isobel Pepper, Year 10, Palmerston North Girls' High