3¢ - Happiness

Quotes of Inspiration: "If you want to be happy, be." -Leo Tolstoy ; "The birds of sadness may fly over your head, just don't let them nest in your hair!" - Walk Two Moons

Why does the world define happiness by material things?


       Would you say that happiness is having everything you want, all the money in the world, a comfortable life. To never be bored, and to be surrounded by people who give you what you want the moment you ask? I certainly would not.


       Happiness is not just an emotion. It's an attitude! While pessimism is more common than optimism, let's say the whole world were optimistic. Perhaps more risks, but perhaps with more not-so-good outcomes? The world is full of extremes, but where is the gray middle of black and white?


       The middle ground of pessimism and optimism must be REALITY!


       The world cannot always provide a positive outlook, but there must not always be a negative. The more we hit reality, the more acceptance there will be in the world! Unhappiness can be characterized by denial or confusion... But did it ever occur to anyone that thinking intently on the reality might make them happier!?


       Happy is commonly considered an "excited" or "glad" emotion... Can't happiness, however, also be a synonym of contentedness?


       No, reality is not always joyous. The fact that a family member may be dying is quite saddening. But the reality is... We will all die at some point, but life will go on! While the situation may not be made glad, we will be made content or HAPPY in the situation. 


       I like to believe there is a bright-side in everything, though others may not, it is an interesting thing to ponder. Is there truly?

       Example: Your parents may be getting a divorce, BUT they will be much more content without an anger or pain dragging on within each other, and in the long run, the joy will return.


       Being excited for the happiness of others is a blessing few may have... But learning to control emotions is a key to becoming happy yourself.


       Could acceptance be the answer to emotional suffering? Or even make a difference? Try the experiment.

Contentedness is a balance between overwhelming  joy and constant grieving... For you, I challenge you to take the journey to the middle ground-- Starting now.