There is a song, written by Paul Parnes and Paul Evans, which states - ‘Happiness is different things to different people’. The song itself goes on to list all the reasons each different person can be happy. But are they really happy and as some people say, isn’t happiness fleeting? In other words, it doesn’t last.
If I asked you when you felt happy what would be your answer? I know when I am happy, I find I have a warm pleasant feeling inside. No, it isn’t how some people describe love, but I do feel I could love everybody when I feel happy. It is more a delight with what is about me and satisfaction with my life at that point. It certainly isn’t anything to do with luck or good fortune which is a dictionary explanation. But I guess I could accept that I am contented, another explanation by the Oxford Dictionary.
Is that the answer? A feeling of security, a knowledge that all about me is going according to plan, and there is nothing at that point in time that is annoying me or making me feel upset? I sometimes feel happy when I have successfully created something, or seen a beautiful tree or flower. Purchasing something might make me happy especially when I have found what I was looking for, but I wouldn’t describe that as happiness. Could happiness just be, being contented? Not necessarily with one’s life, but an awareness that at that moment all is right with the world about you?
I am still not sure this is happiness. Contented I might be, but although I am happy and contented with my life, I am aware life is not always like that and I don’t want it to be. If I was constantly contented, I know I would become self-satisfied and lazy. If contented meant doing nothing to improve me and my family’s way of life and just sitting back with no plans and no desires, I am sure most of the population, like me, would not be happy to be contented all the time.
Investigation amongst all races and countries on this planet reveal that what every human would prefer is to have is a roof over their head granting them security, enough food to eat, education for their children and medicine for when they or their family gets sick. Living this way, they feel they would have peace, they would be contented. But I am not so sure that would be the case. Yes, it would make life easier, but not necessarily keep them contented and happy.
Does this mean that happiness cannot keep us satisfied? Well once again it comes back to what makes a person happy? Each person will be different. And I do believe that, as the statement goes, Happiness is Fleeting. But that doesn’t mean, it is rare. It means everyone can discover happiness, but it can’t stay with them all the time. Each of us have to experience being sad to know when you are happy. But the question many people ask is: How can I find happiness? And I think over the years I have found the answer.
For many years, both my husband and I have volunteered for many things. We provided assistance where needed and helped people when required. We get a lot of pleasure out of it, and have met some amazing people. This action makes us feel happy. Many people volunteer their time to organisations such as Red Cross, Firefighting, Emergency Assistance, and many other groups that help people in need. These are demanding jobs, but brings a lot of volunteers happiness. They have contributed. It has given them a reason to get up in the morning. They have the feeling of being needed, and the more they give, the greater the feeling of warmth and happiness inside.
Doing things for others, creates this good feeling. Succeeding in helping others gives happiness. Seeing people enjoy what you have provided not only makes you feel good, but makes you feel happy. In other words, helping others leads to happiness.
There are so many organisations that need volunteers. The organisation couldn’t operate without them. If you can give your time, you will find it rewarding.
Happiness is a very special part of our lives. Not everyone can find it. But if you try you will. Why not start searching today by helping others.
Julie Finch-Scally ©
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