Symbolising Happiness

Happiness is a frame of mind. It is a feeling that can be easily created by certain techniques.

All it takes is to recall a past moment of happiness, to fully step into that chosen moment and feel.

To feel means to associate oneself with that memory and imagine it in the most vibrant colours, sounds and smells. To experience the joy bubbling forth and sense the starry tinkles in one's eyes. To have a genuine smile lifting the corners of the mouth without premeditation.

Happiness is a state of mind and can be created - pardon the cliche - anytime anywhere. The problem arises when people link happiness to a whole host of material wants - wealth, luxury goods, status, rank... the list runs on.

They think that happiness means having money. And so, they work harder and harder to accumulate ever-increasing wealth. Yet, they remain miserable despite the fatter checkbooks.

Happiness can be pegged not only to tangible items but also to intangible ideas and beliefs. 'I'll be happy when he listens to me.' 'Only his acceptance can bring me joy.' Such ideas, while unconsciously popular, are erroneous. How can one's happiness depend on another?

Only when one realises that happiness is a way of thinking can one achieve it at will. Happiness isn't about having an object or idea fulfilled.

No one holds the monopoly on happiness. After all, it is a frame of mind and anyone who can control his frame of mind can achieve happiness.

Monks can be happy; nuns can be happy. Presidents, vice-presidents, principals and their pupils can be happy. The poor have every right to be happy, just like the rich. You can be happy too... but are you?

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