Happiness is Not a Destination

“You make known to me the path of life;
    you will fill me with joy in your presence,
    with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” Psalm 16:11 NIV

“Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.” —Mahatma Gandhi

A teacher gave her students balloons and instructed them to put their names on them, blow them up, and float them into the school’s hallway. They did as the teacher taught, with quizzical looks all over the classroom. The teacher then instructed the students to locate their balloons, which had their names on them, in the hallway. The hallway was filled with colorful balloons bouncing against the walls and floor, spilling into the classrooms.  The students couldn’t find their own balloons. The teacher then said to pick a balloon and find the person whose name is on the balloon. In five minutes with giggles and surprise, everyone had their own balloon. The teacher then said, “The balloons are like happiness. When you are chasing happiness, you won’t find it, but when you reach out to another, you will find it.”

Brilliant teacher.

And something as simple and colorful as a balloon really adds to the happiness of both children and adults.

Musings

No matter our circumstances, if we reach out to others, there will be a bit of bliss. Happiness is always a choice. My friend who recently passed away was stuck in a chair at home because she was so ill, but still managed to have coffee with me, along with lively conversations and great affection. A bit of happiness and memories of her company in an old farmhouse, I will treasure forever. I think I’ll send up a balloon with her name on it.

Prayer

Dear Father,

Thank you for your Son who always reaches out without punishment or condemnation. He said that others will know us if we love each other—happiness. Help us to realize and take in joy today.

Amen.