Laying the Foundation

It seems like everyone is trying to chase happiness these days. But, we do it such a clumsy way, like toddlers who have just learned to walk- stumbling about with a direction of where we want to go, just a bit perplexed in our ability to actually get there. We think, maybe, if we just have the Newest Gadget or the House on the Hill or the Relationship or The Career or any of the other bazillion things we relentlessly pursue that then happiness might be achieved. The simplists might long for more emotional things over the material. Seeking praise for a job well done, hearing those 3 little words from someone special, or just enjoying laughter with friends. While those certainly attribute more to true happiness than any finite thing can, that's still not its root.

Happiness starts with YOU. It is a state of mind, rather than something to be achieved or attained. It is a place deep within that must be forcefully, whole-heartedly protected from people who wish to rip past the veil and taint it with negativity. It is somewhere that must exist with or without the presense of others. You should be able to find happiness in a room full of friends as well as an empty space. You have to find that within yourself or you will only ever be relying on other people to make you happy. And that, my friends, will never suffice. So many people try to lure happiness by shining a light on themselves. They go to extreme measures to try and convince everyone that they are, in fact, happy when it's all just a facade. But, when you can find that place within you (and it is there, I assure you) you have to kindle that fire and harness that light. Then, you will shine from the inside out and you won't have to convince yourself or anyone of your happiness- it will be all too evident.

Concurrently, when you choose to harbor anger and hatred- it's like putting a pin in the hand of your enemy and waiting for the worst. The hole in the veil might seem small, but the smallest amount of negative thought is enough to destroy everything magical, golden, and loving that lies beyond. Forgive. Choose to be happy. Choose YOU.

Surely, the laughter of children and the love that lingers after the words are spoken are both things of happiness. As are sunsets, the scent of babies, holding hands, the chirping of birds, and walking barefoot in the sand. But, let us remember: those are things on which happiness is BUILT. They are not the FOUNDATION. The foundation is YOU.