True Happiness

 

“True happiness... is not attained through self-gratification, but through fidelity to a worthy purpose.” - Helen Keller

Did you ever notice that the word happiness comes from the same word “hap” just as happen does? For many people, their happiness depends on what happens to them; but, real happiness has a far different basis, as it is an inner sense of true and real joy, regardless of the circumstances.

 

You can choose to be joyful, despite what happens to you. Remember the story about Paul and Silas were thrown in jail (check it out in Acts 16)? They had been humiliated, unjustly punished and severely beaten; yet, what were they doing at midnight? Rejoicing! Singing! They were still Happy!

 

Medical science is rediscovering the beneficial effects of a cheerful, positive outlook on physical health. Of course, the Bible has known this all along! The writer of Proverbs found that “A merry heart does good, like medicine” While you’ll find in Psalm 1:2 that is says “his delight is in the law of the Lord.” In Psalm 37:3-4, we are advised not to fret or worry. Instead, “Trust in the Lord, and do good... Delight yourself also in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart!”

 

On the eve of his own crucifixion, Jesus promised, “These things I have spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy may be full” - John 15:11. In this world of suffering and trouble, to people in despair, to people in need and/or fighting terrible battles, Christ comes and gives them victory over all.  Just know that when we find our happiness in God, we'll gain that inward joy that is matched by our outward satisfaction and over-all well-being!

 

“All true happiness, pure joy, sweet bounties, and unclouded pleasure are contained within the knowledge and love of God." - Said Nursi

These past few months I have been living with my grandmother and taking care of her. I believe and have been told that I am a natural care giver. While that may be the case, caring for an elderly person at the end of their life is an experience that will challenge everything you know about yourself. There have been many challenges and struggles, but one thing remains constant. I love my grandmother and she loves me. 

Throughout all the stress of providing end of life care and going to college, I do my best to find one thing everyday that brings a small smile to my face and provides me with a sense of peace. Frequently I scroll through my photos and look at pictures of my nephew. He is a major source of joy and happiness in my life. 

Another source of peace in my life is my bible. I enjoy opening it up to random pages and seeing what speaks to me. I always feel less stressed and restless when I read passages and verses. Today the passage that resonated with me was Proverbs 3:3-6;11-12;25-26. Pertaining to verse 25, I had a sudden terror last night with my grandmother and then this morning I opened to this tailored verse for my stressor.

Of course, nothing takes the place of emotional phone calls with my mom. She listens to me vent and unload all the emotional stress I am experiencing. She listens to what I am experiencing in any tone it comes out in and offers me advice and tips to help me with what I am going through.

That was three sources of joy and happiness in my life. It is hard to admit that my life is extremely stressful. When asked how am I, my regurgitated response is I am fine. I think we are conditioned to always be fine to the point that when asked how we are we answer in a positive way. 

So my challenge to you is to answer the following questions truthfully and with thought. 

What is your true happiness? What are some of the things that bring joy to your life? What puts a smile on your face when everything around you is weighing you done?