Maria's years of hard work payed off. In exactly 9 hours and 52 minutes she would be the first female executive ever, to give the keynote speech at the annual island conference for the top 300 businesses in the world. 
Her gown for the gala was hanging in her bungalow, her husband was golfing, and she had time to do a little exploring. Life was good.
She requested a car, and directions to the most beautiful spot on the island.
As she walked on the beach, sandals in hand, Maria reflected on all she had accomplished.
In the distance she saw a native fisherman battling a more than worthy adversary. As she neared, the fisherman pulled his catch to shore. Maria gleefully clapped and shouted, "Bravo! Bravo!"
Out of breath, the smiling man motioned for her to join him as he sat down. He had a handsome round face with kind eyes. After a little protesting, she sat. Soon, they spoke like old friends. His name was Kai.
He explained that he spends 4 or 5 hours fishing each day, then joins his wife and children for a meal, household chores and a perhaps a nap. In the evening, they return to this place for a swim and a bonfire with friends and family.
She tried to explain what her life and business were like, but it was difficult for him understand. Then the conversation turned to his life.
Maria: "Do you ever think about doing something else?"
Kai: "What do you mean?"
Maria: "For instance, you could have a business selling fish to island hotels."
Kai: "I have done that when they are in need."
Maria: See you're all set!
Kai: What would I do next?"
Marie: "Well, you could hire your friends and family, expand your business, travel around the world like I do."
Kai looked puzzled.
Kai: "How much do you travel?"
Maria: "Probably 200 days a year or so. It takes a lot to get to where I am, and even more to stay here."
Kai: "With all that travel, does your family life suffer?"
Maria: "It's just my husband and I on this trip, but we love it. We try to take our kids to nice places like this 2 or 3 times a year. We have a lot of fun together.
Kai: "If I get to the top of the business world like you, then what would I do?"
Maria: "After years of hard work, you could write your own ticket. You could do whatever you want. You could even retire here if you like."
Kai: "I don't want to wait until my days are near the end to be here in paradise. I am happy now with my family and friends."
"I need to gather my stuff now. My family will be expecting me soon..."
Maria, went on to give her speech, but never forgot about her talk with Kai.
The Takeaway
This allegory represents the pursuit of happiness. It reminds us to ask ourselves if the life we are pursuing is truly what we want in the end.
