Happiness

I believe most people think their happiness depends upon circumstances largely beyond their control.  Perhaps in the short run this is true; I am not happy when I am seasick or when somebody ‘keys’ the side of my car.  But I am glad I have seen the sea; and at least I had a car. 

But in the long run I believe we can be happy—indeed are designed and encouraged to pursue happiness:  “Men are [alive] that they might have joy” (Book of Mormon, 2 Nephi 2:25).  Also, “Happiness is the object and design of our existence, and will be the end thereof if we pursue the path that leads to it; and this path is virtue, uprightness, faithfulness, holiness, and keeping all the commandments of God” (Joseph Smith). 

If there be a ‘secret’ to happiness it might consist not of ‘having,’ in the material sense, but of ‘being;’ it is the warm glow of being at peace with yourself.  A martyr at the stake may have happiness that a king on his throne might envy.  Joan of Arc (d. 1431) is an example of that.  It is a life lived in harmony with high ideals. 

We all know that one person will get discords out of a piano, another will get beautiful harmonies; it is what you do with the piano.  What you do with the piano will take time and practice.  Practice is not trying something once, falling flat, and never getting up and trying again.  Practice is falling down seven times, but getting up the eighth and doing it again. 

Here are some sources of happiness; I am sure you can add more:

·        A sense of being free—free to choose, free to try.

·        A sense of self-mastery and the integrity to really stand for something.

·        Taking advantage of the privilege of work.

·        The possession of health.

·        The ability to see God’s beauty about us.

·        The harboring of upbuilding thoughts.

·        Knowledge that you are true to those who trust you or who have helped you. 

·        The power of faith rewarded.