Some years ago, a bumper sticker made the rounds on many vehicles in the United States. It simply said, "He Who Dies With the Most Toys--WINS!" While such a statement can make us chuckle, it did, nonetheless, express the growing trend in our society to define our happiness and main pursuit in life in terms of "things." What about you?

With a new year and century beginning, many people reflect on goals, plans and their desire to achieve success. Not just anyone's definition of success—but their own vision of fulfillment and happiness.

Do you have goals and achievements you are shooting for during the next year? The next 10 years? Many people know they want to "succeed," but are often confused about what it is they are really after. You don't have to fall into that trap.

We are living at a time when a growing number of people in the developed nations define success by a certain dollar amount or annual salary. Whether it is money itself or the possession of "things"—computers, new cars, the latest clothing or the most current electronic gadgetry—this generation often focuses on the possession of wealth in some form to determine "success."

In this issue of YOUTH United we look at the subject of success and happiness from several different angles. The authors examine the growing preoccupation with materialism in our society, and the guidance that God's Word gives us about covetousness. They look at how to give yourself the advantage of preparing and planning for your future. This issue's "Your Education" feature focuses on the importance of developing often overlooked aspects of your intelligence—your emotions and character.

As you'll discover in the articles in this issue, success is not as superficial as it is painted in the media. Truer words were never spoken than when Jesus Christ instructed His disciples in Luke 12:15, "And He said to them, 'Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.'"

As Christ instructed His followers, true success in the long run involves satisfaction and accomplishment beyond our wildest dreams. It means discovering the true potential given to you and all of mankind by your Creator and enjoying the journey of life to achieve it. The obstacles we might face on the course are not worthy to be compared to the prize. You'll find that helping others in their journey adds joy and happiness to the trip.

If you'd like to know more about your potential and the destiny God has given you, read the inspiring booklet, What Is Your Destiny?.

Here's to your true, never-ending success! YU