While I agree simple experiences can bring about happiness, is that happiness really permanent and not just an emotion at that point in time?

While I am all for the sentimental the reality is that for many people they have a criteria or goals which make them happy. Sure you can be carefree and experiences joy but when you're broke, homeless, alone etc as a result of it where's the happiness? I'm by no means saying money can buy happiness but rather it is a consequence of our present day society that we need things to feel at ease. Not worrying about how to pay our next month's bills are a form of happiness in my opinion. Unfortunately we can't just experience things and feel upbeat because it's very difficult to be an idealist in today's pragmatic world. I would love if this were untrue and that we could be happy based on just living, but that's not how it is.

Enjoying life comes at a price sadly because no matter how happy you are just smelling the roses, the government won't take feelings as a form of income tax payment, that employer won't hire you because you're always smiling yet unqualified for the position. I hate to be the rain to anyone's proverbial parade but the results of western society's years of development has made happiness something that has to be sought out, not merely experienced.