Self-Styled Happiness

What is happiness? Is it a state of mind or an illusion? Is it self-created or controlled by external factors?  Let us broadly divide happiness into two segments:

Self-Created

Here is a perfect example of self-created happiness. Lately I had been visiting the veterinary hospital to treat my ailing dog. On view were plenty of dogs showing love for their masters irrespective of how they looked or what they wore. I term this as unconditional love and all that the dog seeks in return is a kind word and a pat on the head. We have a lot to learn from our furry friends when it comes to happiness, loyalty and unconditional love.

External Factors

We are by nature very selective about who to befriend and who to love. There is an ulterior motive which controls our actions, and without hesitation we extend love and friendship to people who are affluent and influential even though they may be of questionable character. So this is conditional love, as we are expecting something in return.

Introspection

How many of us are capable of extending unconditional love? In other words love without expectations or reciprocation. This type of love will bring you immense satisfaction and unbelievable happiness.

We possess and display love of varying intensity. Initially we love our parents with all our heart and are willing to do anything for them. However over the years this love gets diluted when other people become part of our life. It’s now the turn of the life partner to hog the limelight, followed by the arrival of children. If all can live amicably together, then it would be a perfect world. However in reality that rarely happens. The parents become the first victim and are pushed into the background and in many cases are either abandoned or pushed into homes. Some shrewd affluent parents escape this scenario if they continue to control the finances or property, ensuring that due attention and love continues to come their way. What does this prove? Love has a give and take policy.

Conclusion

The reason for emphasizing on love is because it is part and parcel of happiness. There can be no happiness without love. Our ultimate goal is to achieve happiness. So to achieve complete happiness, extend unconditional love to all, irrespective of their relationship to you.

It is a well-known fact that we reap what we sow and with God’s blessings we can benefit tenfold. Isn’t that a good enough incentive for us?