In just a few short days, I’ve interacted with and observed hundreds of people, and as someone deeply attuned to the energy and presence of others, I noticed that only four individuals radiated genuine happiness - the kind of rich, authentic energy that naturally spreads to those around them. In a society where true joy seems almost rebellious, how can we cultivate and sustain happiness when it is so rarely witnessed or felt? Human beings tend to mirror the energy of those around them, which, when collective unhappiness dominates, only perpetuates it further. This raises a compelling question: is pursuing happiness a moral obligation - to consciously seek it, maintain it, and share it - for the betterment of society as a whole?
"If
you ask people what kinds of activities bring them pleasure, it's
usually contact with nature, things that are creative, and relationships
with people, and the things we do to live simply bring us all those
satisfactions." ~
Simplicity, it seems, is part of the answer. This realization was particularly evident during Thanksgiving, surrounded by the warm faces of immediate and extended family and friends. Among potluck dishes, conversation, and laughter, we discovered tremendous joy in life’s simple pleasures.
One especially meaningful moment came in an intimate conversation with a wise friend I see only once a year. We spoke about meditation, manifestation, and his visions for humanity’s future.
As Jeanne Roy’s insight reminds us, meaningful relationships with good people are central to pleasure, and she was undoubtedly right.
Wishing love and joy to all. š