In Plain Sight: A Journey with Happiness

 "Within the fabric of everyday life, happiness quietly resides, awaiting our attention. But we must endeavor to uncover its presence." - Silver Trumpets

Happiness – that sometimes elusive yet ever-desired state of living. Being happy and having happiness carry a subtle difference. Feeling happy is often a temporary emotional state while happiness implies a more enduring and overall sense of well-being.  

And friends, happiness is not the destination or prize at the finish line. Lately, I've been seeing happiness as the mode of transportation through our days. On my way to work yesterday morning, I drove alongside a dozen or so commuters. I considered the different vehicles carrying them, that these were the cars they had picked for themselves and wondered what made them choose that one specifically. Then I wondered if it merely provided satisfactory transportation or if it made the journey smoother. Similarly, we consciously choose the mode of transportation to carry us through our day too. But do we chose happiness? Or do we find ourselves traveling in anger, pessimism, or sadness instead?

So, what could happiness modes of transportation look like? Imagine waking up in the morning and, instead of dreading the day ahead, you start by savoring a cup of your favorite coffee and slowly enjoying your breakfast. Or during your lunch break, you take a few moments to step outside and soak in the beauty of nature around you. Or even as the day ends and you unwind--maybe taking a 1-hour tech break like I did recently--to reflect on moments of joy you experienced. These are examples of traveling in happiness.

Here is another way to visualize. Happiness can also be a companion to walk beside you through the twists and turns of life. Think about the qualities you value in a close friend – someone who lifts your spirits when you're feeling down, who celebrates your successes with genuine joy, and who stands by your side through thick and thin. Happiness embodies these same qualities, offering a sense of stability and reassurance even in the face of adversity.

When we choose happiness as our companion, we invite positivity and optimism into our lives. We also can become more resilient in the face of challenges, more open to new experiences, and more appreciative of the good around us. And, just like any meaningful relationship, cultivating a deeper connection with happiness requires time, effort, and intentionality.

I can hear some readers’ thoughts of, "but...I cannot be happy all the time. Life can be hard." True. It is essential to acknowledge that experiencing negative emotions and facing challenges is a natural part of the human experience. Happiness is not about being in a perpetual state of euphoria, and yet, we can let it carry us towards finding contentment and fulfillment despite life's ups and downs.

So, amid the hustle and bustle of the upcoming days, I hope you'll remember this little post and recall that happiness quietly awaits your attention, nestled within the fabric of the little moments. Whether you visualize it as your transport or companion, may it become a force that guides you towards finding more joy and peace in your life.