Derailed Thoughts

The Pursuit of Happiness

August 16th, 2008

So often, we think we know what we want in life. We exert so much of our minds in thinking about presently unattainable things that we believe would make us happy (the career that is just out of our reach, the car that is barely too expensive, the cute girl that won’t give us the time of day). James Oppenheim (I don’t know who he is either) once said something very true: “The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance. The wise man grows it under his feet.”

Further, I find it baffling how we cling to those things in our lives that bring us happiness, but dread the thought of change–even for the better (clinging to a half-decent relationship, fearing to quit a stable but monotonous job). It is interesting that in combining these two habits, we eliminate any chance of enjoying our real happiness in the present. We find our eyes lustfully gazing at illusory perfection, our fears pinning us to a mediocre present (as illustrated here by Mr. B. Willard Bishop).

There is a lesson in life that I know, but somehow have yet to be entirely schooled in. It is this: Lasting happiness lies in truly loving the moment we live while still fearlessly following opportunities to improve it.

We will search all of our lives trying to find the balance between patient contentment and a ferocious drive for the better. I strongly believe, though, that God’s hand will guide us into those things that are best for us–our duty lies only in enjoying the present and embracing the good when it comes to us. I am amazed how a foolish little me has found happiness in life by just trusting that good choices in the present will eventually make the future bright.

Let life come as it may. We can enjoy the moments that the sun is shining, and we can trust that when it rains, it gives opportunity for the future to be greener.