Happiness

I recently heard Steve Blow talk on the subject, happiness, taking references from a book by Dr. Seligman. What I remember most was the statement: "Live in the present and do those things that help others; the end result will bring you gratification." It started me thinking - just what is happiness.

Happiness is the one thing that almost everyone is seeking. Many search in vain, but only a small number have actually attained it. A great Philosopher once wrote: Happiness is neither within us or without us; it is the union of ourselves with God.

However, a more practical man said: Happiness consists of the attainment of our desires and in our having only right & justifiable desires.

It is difficult to explain just what happiness is, but it can certainly be considered a habit which is worth cultivating. The Boy Scout Motto says: "Do a good turn daily." Be as concerned about bringing happines to others as you are to yourself. When you bring happiness to others, it rubs off on yourself, making it the by-probuct of your efforts to make someone else happy.

A quote from Norman Vincent Peale: "The way to happiness is to keep your heart free from worry, live simply, expect little, give much, scatter sunshine, forget self, think of others."

Socrates said, "Know Thyself." Here are some pertinent points made by Dr. Frank Caprio , published in the National Inquirer several years ago:
1. Give yourself a daily mistake allowance
2. Find something that's lovable about yourself
3. Find a few kind words for someone else
4. Find something good to admire in others
5. Find something to laugh about
6. Find something to celebrate
7. Find a challange
8. Find something useful to do for someone else

There are many worthwhile causes in all communities in which to volunteer your time & talents thus having the gratification of helping someone else.

Finally, if you see someone without a smile, give that person yours - it is contagious. Remember the grouch here at Chambrel that I referred to in an article titled 'Act or React.' Well, I have been smiling at him every morning and saying a cheery good morning and he is smiling back! I found the following words of insight, printed in the Dallas Morning News several years past, written by the Rev. Blair Monie, who was at that time pastor of Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church. He used these words in a sermon.

One smile begins a friendship;
One bird can herald the spring;
One song speaks a moment;
One star guides a ship;
One candle wipes out the darkness;
One laugh dispels the gloom;
One touch shows you care;
One word begins a prayer;
One note can change a nation;
One life can make a difference!

I'll end with my favorite quote on happiness by Dr. Norman M. Bradbury: "Happiness is when the positive satisfactions outweigh the negative experiences."