“that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness”
This quote from the United States Declaration of Independence is probably one of the most well-know and oft-quoted justifications for lifestyle decisions, but I think Jefferson got it wrong.
Actually the only thing that I have an issue with is the so-called pursuit of Happiness. While it sells as an inspirational thought, it’s application in real life is suspect and disappointing.
Happiness as a goal will be elusive at best. You will be happy and you will be unhappy. In fact the english word happy comes from the word “hap” meaning lucky. The pursuit of happiness is a crapshoot.
I would like to suggest to you a more suitable pursuit.
How about the pursuit of fulfillment?
Finding purpose in your life is more important than finding happiness. Knowing that you are doing and accomplishing what you were designed to do is likely to leave you with a sense of satisfaction that could be more enduring that happiness. Fulfillment is an attainable goal for anyone.
So… instead of pouring all your energy into pursuing happiness, find out what you do best and pursue that. Along the way you may find a lot of happiness but you will be guaranteed to find fulfillment.
I’d really like to know what you think about the pursuit of happiness. Let’s talk about it in the comments.
#1 by Ronald Huereca on Apr 02, 2007 - 8:32 pm
I guess it depends if you look at happiness as a feeling or as a noun. Happiness as a feeling itself is temporary and isn’t meant to last.
I know in the movie, “The Pursuit of Happyness”, one of the things that is mocked is happiness and how it can never be achieved.
#2 by Dave on Apr 02, 2007 - 9:50 pm
Ronald, I think happiness tends to be viewed as a feeling. People usually talk about feeling or being happy. Happiness as a permanent state is unachieveable but fulfillment on the other hand..