Happiness
When asked what they want in the future most of my students would say, “To have a happy life.” I know that sounds simple, but i think it sounds simple because they are saying it in their second language. Sure, we all want a happy life. Raise your hand if you want a miserable life…… that’s what i thought…. no one.
Now we must figure out what brings happiness. Money? Success? Fame? Approval? Vacation homes? Helping people? Pouring ourselves out for those who have less? Giving? Loving?
I’m still a young guy with a lot to learn, but i’m increasingly gaining an understanding of the idea that giving ourselves away means we gain much joy. I’m still in process, but my quest for the abundant life always leads back to the truth that there must be less of me. Less of my selfishness, less of my arrogance, less of my agenda, less of me and more of Love.
Mom said
am October 27 2008 @ 11:16 am
Your last paragraph tells me you are a lot closer than you think. Your every day example is the best way to demonstrate happiness and in doing so, reinforces and strengthens your own walk. I came across this little poem when you were a baby that kind of sums up our ultimate goal. “I tried to teach a child through play to be more Christlike every day. And I, myself, became that way.”
Sanne said
am October 27 2008 @ 1:07 pm
Well, I think there’s one word that comes in mind when I think about happiness: love. I think loving people is the most beautiful thing in the world. Often I’m so amazed by love. It’s a beautiful thing…
sara said
am October 28 2008 @ 8:11 pm
Amen to that. Something I’m striving to learn as well…
Scott Fillmer said
am October 28 2008 @ 10:30 pm
I think this post about sums it up for me too, and I bet a few of your other readers as well… great post (sorry to hear about the permit issue too, but it was a little humorous on this side of the world, someone over here would have probably sued for illegally detaining someone).