I read an article in Nice News (Here’s the link: https://nicenews.com/culture/what-happiest-people-have-in-common-survey/). The article was about a survey that sought out things that people who designated themselves as either pretty happy or very happy across the United States. They found that friendships and involvement in the community were key factors. Interestingly, happiness was not due to a person’s wealth.
I have found over the years that happiness is a state of mind. I am the person who decides to be happy or sad. It really is an intrinsic thing. At least for me. The folks who I know that are only happy when things external to them make them happy, are not happy at all. They are unhappy if the weather is bad, their job is not working out, or some other external thing. They chase happiness only to find out that what they thought would make them happy–didn’t.
I am very happy with my life. I have the privilege of helping out my folks and spending time with them in their senior years. I have a great wife. I have awesome siblings. I am also very happy when I get the opportunity to teach others, play games with others, and serve others when they need some help. When I do for others, my happiness increases dramatically. It’s a feeling that can’t be bought. It is like a wave of love comes back when you give of yourself to someone else. It’s hard to explain.
If you’re unhappy, cultivate happiness by just being happy. I know this may seem like an insurmountable task, but it really is just that simple. We decide to be happy or sad or angry or guilty. It is all a state of mind.
Well, that’s all I got for today, folks. I hope all of you have a terrific Friday!
Until next time…
Dave