I am actually staying in Plainfield, near Montpellier (Vermont), about 1300 habitants, long ride from New Jersey. Plainfield is home of Goddard College and has a nice local co-op. I am as close to a foreign country (Canada in that case) as can be. Relaxing week-end with friends.

Of course, people will not be chanting these words like a mantra. Can a job become like a difficult relationship where the person you are trying to be close to does not reciprocate? Can it become unhealthy with too much emotional baggage attached to it? In our age of enlightenment, should we still try to find meaning and a sense of purpose in what we do? Would it be better for most of us if...