Why Worry? Be Happy

Happiness is certainly the rarest of commodities. But as we saw in previous articles, the irony is that you and you alone can make it happen. Yes, it takes a lot of practice and no, money is not the answer, no matter what some street philosophers tell you.

If you have read that amazing book “Night” by Elie Wiesel, you can see that even in the most terrible circumstances (being a Jew in a concentration camp under Nazi Germany must be one of the worst imaginable), some of the prisoners were able to find a degree of happiness. You do have some control over the following factors which are crucial to reach happiness:

A Group of Friends

It doesn’t have to be large, but its members must truly be friends; they must be loyal, empathetic, and think of others before themselves. True, such people are very difficult to find, even (how sad) in a church environment.

You might find them among your neighbors (rarely), on a trip (difficult to continue seeing each other), or carry them over from high school (very possible if you haven’t moved). Of course, friendship is a two way street; you yourself must be genuine, honest, frank and empathetic. If you are married, such persons must be friends for the both of you, or else some conflicts and distrust may arise. (Remember that your spouse must be your best friend or your marriage isn’t going to work).

Generosity

You must give of yourself to aid others. The more you help those in needs, the happier you will become. Money can solve some problems, but your presence, your ability to listen with empathy, and your personal warmth will work wonders.

Having and Raising Children

As a grandfather, I realize that I missed many opportunities to participate more actively in raising my children. Is there more joy in the world than in the heart of a small child? Is there greater satisfaction than hearing the pearly laughter of a baby? Is there any greater peace (at least for us) than watching children play? Can you see the wonderful innocence in those young eyes? Enjoy those moments if you have children and if you don’t have your own, enjoy them through others. You’ll find contentment in your heart and everything else will become less important.

Contemplation of Beauty

We are surrounded by beauty: The mountains, the lake, the sunset or sunrise, the flowers, the animals, the babies, music, colors, human life, a tiny cell, strange clouds, the pitter-patter of rain on the roof, the aroma of fresh bread, etc. You can stop your life (!) and take the time to contemplate all the beauty that surrounds you; a few minutes a day will bring peace to your heart.

Creativity

Your talent is in creating whatever your spirit dictates; you don’t have to be a Picasso, or a Da Vinci. Just the fact that you are creating something is, in itself, a work of art that will bring joy to your heart, just as this short essay brings joy to my heart.

If you can dream it, you can do it!