Real happiness is found in our ability to embrace the present moment
The drive for happiness implies a dissatisfaction with the present moment and maintains the illusion that greener pastures lie just ahead.
Before we had language, as we lay in our cribs, we were marinating in the mantra of "I'll be happy when". We heard our parents say: "I'll be happy when you get a pay rise", "I'll be happy when we move to a bigger house", "I'll be happy when we get a better car", "I'll be happy when you remember to take out the rubbish", "I'll be happy when the kitchen is renovated", "I'll be happy when we go on holidays", "I'll be happy when we retire".
Before long we are deeply convinced that happiness lies in the future once we have the 'stuff' of life - the possessions, the relationships, the accoutrements of a happy life.
This constant striving for the 'stuff' of life that we believe will bring us happiness dominates us. Have you considered how much time you spend on the 'getting of stuff'?
Real happiness is found in our ability to embrace the present moment, regardless of its challenges with a quiet mind – free of chaos and chatter – and an open and generous heart, free of judgement.
A meaningful life is possible for each of us. It’s built on an inner resilience where peace and happiness are not buffeted by the outer circumstances of our lives. Indeed, happiness is an inside job.
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Category(s):Happiness
Source material from Think
