PEL Family Students Debate: Is Money the Source of Happiness?

The concept of money has always sparked passionate debates around the world. People see it differently, some value it as the key to success, while others question its true power to bring happiness. On November 8, 2025, the students of Poetic English with Luc Mulindwa (PEL Family) took on this age-old topic, using it as an opportunity to practice their English-speaking skills.

During the debate, opinions were divided. Many students argued that money is the main source of happiness, while others firmly disagreed.
Before diving into their viewpoints, the discussion began with a short grammar reflection on how articles can change meaning:

• “Money is the source of happiness”: the article the suggests that money is the only or main source of happiness.
• “Money is a source of happiness”: the article a implies that money is one of several factors that contribute to happiness.

This short language reminder helped students understand that small grammatical choices can express big ideas. Throughout the evening, participants expressed their views with honesty and respect, often agreeing to disagree, a spirit that reflects tolerance and peaceful coexistence in society.

Diverse Viewpoints

For Mr. Clément Mulindwa, a PEL Family member from Goma, money remains the main source of happiness. According to him, financial struggles can affect confidence and morale.

“When you have money, you become joyful because you can buy what you need. Without money, you feel stressed, lose confidence, and even lose respect in family circles,” he explained.

From Bujumbura, Burundi, Miss Grace K.B. shared an opposite perspective. She agreed that money is necessary but denied it is the source of happiness.

“Someone can have money and still not enjoy life, while poor families can rejoice with the little they have,” she said. “I could marry a rich man thinking money brings happiness, but if I don’t find love and peace, I’ll end up disappointed. That’s why I believe money is not the source of happiness.”

Grace concluded that money is a valuable tool but must be used wisely.

Mr. Bahati Junior built on Grace’s argument: “We must take care of our families, relationships, and health. Once you lose them, you lose your happiness. Money helps, but it’s not the main source of being happy.”

Mr. Hope Baraka summarized the debate beautifully:

“Some believe money brings comfort, security, and freedom. Others think true happiness comes from love, health, and inner peace. The best view is balance, money can make life easier, but real happiness depends on our hearts, relationships, and how we use what we have.”

From Bukavu, Mr. Patient linked happiness to moral values such as kindness, humility, integrity, and honesty.

“Money can’t buy genuine love or friendship,” he said. “It’s necessary for living like to eat, study, pay rent, or dress; but it doesn’t create true joy. Money moves the floor of your misery, but it doesn’t raise the ceiling of your happiness.”

Also from Bukavu, Mr. Alex Mushagalusa took a different stance, agreeing with Mr. Clément.

“Money may not buy love or time, but it gives freedom, security, and access to better health and education. Life becomes easier and less stressful when basic needs are covered,” he insisted.

However, Mr. Medan disagreed on the notion of security: “Many of the most insecure people in the world are those who have money. They live in fear of being robbed, killed, or becoming poor again,” he argued.

Conclusion

By the end of the debate, most students agreed that money isn’t everything, but it does contribute to happiness. They concluded that money is a tool, its impact depends on how wisely one uses it. Yet, a few participants stood firm, believing that money remains the true source of happiness.