Saturday, July 3, 2010

The Importance of the Pursuit of Happiness

The importance of the Pursuit of Happiness is obvious. Life is short; enjoy it. Make every effort to be happy. Personal happiness is the most logical goal in life. Perfection is impossible. Problems—world hunger, extreme poverty, war, etc.—will continue to plague mankind. Fighting for ideals—justice, order, human dignity, etc.—is great, for progress is possible, but perfection has been and always will be unattainable. Personal happiness, on the other hand, is entirely possible. Personal happiness depends on the individual alone, whereas the aforementioned problems and ideals rely on society’s cooperation. This single principle makes personal happiness the most logical goal in life

True, religious beliefs uphold doctrines such as reincarnation or eternal life after death. Under such beliefs, life does not end with death, a comforting notion. However, without proof of life after death, it is in the best interest of the individual to doubt. Make life on earth enjoyable, there may not be another chance at happiness. Of course, this is a subjective truth. Perhaps for some, belief in life after death contributes to the individual’s personal happiness. Whatever works, whatever cultivates happiness, passionately pursue.

3 comments:

Suzanne said...

It’s a great perspective, a healthy, right-on the mark truth. In addition, God created us to be joyous. I say this because of what I experienced in life after death, which changed my life forever. I wrote about it because as you say, “life is short” and it’s to be lived in happiness. It is our choice, even in the not so best of times.

Suzanne McMillen-Fallon, Published Author
www.strategicbookpublishing.com/Mommy, would you like a sandwich?

Jacqueline Johns - Your Happy Life Mentor said...

Loved your post, except for the last two words.

I passionately believe happiness is not to be pursued, as this would suggest it is something outside of us.

Happiness is snuggled up in a quiet spot within you.
You need only be still and silent and allow it to unfold until it eventually engulfs you.

Live Life Happy!

Gabriel Gethin said...

Poetic words indeed, but I remain unconvinced. Tell me more about the quiet spot within me from which happiness unfolds and engulfs. I admit, it is a beautiful concept, but the beauty of the idea does not imply existance.