HAPPINESS IS A VOYAGE

We convince ourselves that life is better once we are married, have a baby, and then another. But we get frustrated because our children are not old enough and tell ourselves that all will be well when they are older. Then we are further frustrated because they reach adolescence and we must deal with that. Surely we will be happier when they grow up – and so it goes on, with happiness a distant mirage, always awaited. We also tend to console ourselves with various thoughts such as life will be better when we get a new car, when we can take a vacation or when we finally retire.

The truth is that life is always full of challenges. There are always obstacles, an ordeal to get through, bills to be paid, work to be finished, etc., etc. It has finally dawned on me that these obstacles are life. This point of view has helped me to appreciate that there isn’t any road to happiness. Happiness is the road. So enjoy every moment – don’t sigh over the blessings of others, or their achievements or honours, because applause dies away, trophies gather dust and winners are soon forgotten. Remembered are those moments and those souls who were close by.

Another key to happiness is genuine concern for others. Some time ago, at the Seattle Olympics, nine athletes, all mentally or physically challenged, stood at the start line for a 100 metres race. The gun fired and the race began. Nobody was actually running because it just was not possible in his or her condition but they had the spirit to participate and win.

Suddenly one boy tripped and started crying. The other eight stopped and came back. Then all nine walked shoulder-to-shoulder to the finish point. They found happiness in sacrificing their chance of winning so that their friend would not lose. The crowd applauded and the people who witnessed it still talk about it as a great moment.

Life is short and it is important to help others win, even if it means slowing down and reducing our own chances in the race of life.

Happiness finally seems to be within our grasp.

Based on a feature (‘Inner Voice’) in the ‘Hindustan Times’ dated Nov. 03, 2006.