"Ours is the only nation that includes 'the pursuit of happiness' in its founding documents."
That's true, but the kingdom of Bhutan put its focus on "gross national happiness" (as opposed to an economic focus on gross domestic product) in its constitution in 2008. Bhutan's king first suggested that shift in focus in 1972, to conform with Bhutan's 1,000 year culture of Buddhism, based on the idea that "happiness is accrued from a balanced act rather than from an extreme approach." The idea is not pursue happiness directly, but to focus on nine domains that will indirectly bring happiness.
I always thought that Buddhism focused more on suffering than happiness but I guess happiness comes when nirvana (satori in Japanese) is achieved, since that gives liberation from suffering. The idea that happiness cannot be sought directly -- that "happiness pursued eludes" -- resonates deeply with Buddhist teachings, especially in Zen Buddhism. Zen emphasizes that enlightenment or satori cannot be grasped through direct striving or attachment, but instead comes naturally when one lets go of desires and expectations, embracing the present moment fully.
Zen teacher D.T. Suzuki told a fable about a woodsman who came upon a beaver who promised him satori if he killed him with his ax. The woodsman tried many times to kill the beaver but every time he struck at him the beaver would sense the blow coming and dodge it. Finally the woodsman went back to chopping wood and as he brought the ax down on a log the head flew off and killed the beaver. The woodsman achieved satori.
The woodsman's repeated attempts to kill the beaver symbolize the futility of forcing enlightenment through sheer effort. It is only when he returns to his ordinary task — chopping wood with no attachment to the outcome — that the unsought happens and satori is achieved. This reflects the Zen idea that enlightenment often comes when one is least expecting it, in the midst of simple, mindful actions.
This story also aligns with the Zen koan tradition, where paradoxical or seemingly nonsensical tales are used to transcend logical thinking and awaken deeper insight. It's a reminder that the path to true happiness or enlightenment is not about chasing it but about cultivating a state of openness and presence.
Mardy, I admire the comprehensive way you’ve covered the topic of happiness. I’ve always thought that seeking happiness was like trying to squeeze a wet bar of soap; it’s not an end in itself, but a byproduct of something else like serving others or achieving goals. Reflecting on the Thomas Merton quotation: Happiness consists in finding out precisely what the “one thing necessary” may be, in our lives, and in gladly relinquishing all the rest. I have found that the “one thing necessary” changes. Like Merton, the “one thing necessary” for the first part of my life was religion, being a priest. The I left the priesthood and married and the one thing necessary changed. Now that I am a widower, I am seeking what is necessary at this stage of my life to bring the same happiness I experienced earlier. Thanks as always for your insights.
several connections for me in this week's topic...
first, I have the book: "The Joys of Yiddish" because I bought, for 2 connections. My dad's parents, when they were teenagers, separately, came from Russia to the US, perhaps 1 from a part of Russia that is now Poland - I've never been able to learn exactly. So, I've always had an interest in my heritage. My dad was fluent in at least 5 languages, & could carry on conversations in others...
the other connection w/ the book brings me to the happiness issue - being a volunteer. Both of my parents were volunteers in a variety of ways, always, as I was growing up, so wonderful role models. I've been a volunteer for many organizations my entire adult life, & I'm now 74. The book was purchased because, at the time I was volunteering for an agency that taught English for local adults who had dropped out of high school & for foreigners. Many of those were wanting to pass their US citizenship test - they were so excited when they did so!!
Ok, back to volunteerism. I think just about every list you find having to do w/ 'happiness' includes being a volunteer. I have many quotes about that 😁. It brings happiness to those you serve AND to the individual volunteer.
You have done a masterful job addressing a very intriguing topic—how to find true happiness. This is a topic that has been debated throughout history. There are many theories about finding happiness. You’ve covered several, and some come very close (i.e., the notion that happiness is found by focusing outwardly rather than on self).
These theories are based on man’s wisdom. Call it pragmatism or secular humanism or whatever you like, it’s man’s ideas for finding happiness. However, the best answers come from God, our Creator. He made us, and He knows how we’re wired. He knows what’s best for us and what would make us most happy. And yes, happiness is something He desires for each one of us!
The Bible has a lot to say about happiness—though it often uses words like joy, blessedness, or contentment, rather than the modern, fleeting idea of "happiness." Biblical happiness is usually tied to a deep, lasting sense of peace and fulfillment that comes from a relationship with God, rather than from external circumstances.
Here are a few key themes and verses:
________________________________________
1. Happiness Comes from God, Not Circumstances
• Psalm 16:11 (NIV):
“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.”
• Habakkuk 3:17–18 (NIV):
“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines... yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.”
→ Even when life is hard, joy is still possible through trust in God.
________________________________________
2. Obedience and Trust Bring Blessing and Joy
• Psalm 1:1–2 (NIV):
“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked... but whose delight is in the law of the Lord.”
• Proverbs 16:20 (NIV):
“Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord.”
→ Biblical happiness is often described as the result of walking in God’s ways.
________________________________________
3. Joy Is a Fruit of the Spirit
• Galatians 5:22–23 (NIV):
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness…”
→ Joy is not just an emotion but a spiritual result of living close to God.
________________________________________
4. True Happiness Is Found in Jesus
• Matthew 16:24-26 (ESV)
Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?
• John 15:11 (NIV):
“I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.”
→ Jesus connects abiding in Him (remaining in His love and teachings) with full, lasting joy.
________________________________________
5. Beatitudes: The “Blessed Are” Statements
• Matthew 5:3–12
Jesus outlines who is “blessed” (often translated as “happy” or “fortunate”)—the poor in spirit, the meek, the peacemakers, etc.
→ These aren’t the usual sources of worldly happiness, but they reflect God’s values and bring deeper fulfillment.
To summarize, happiness is found, not in WHAT, but in WHOM. And that WHOM is not just others, but the ultimate OTHER that always sees, always appreciates, always values.
Hi Mardy - I love your topic, but for the first time, disagree with your Mystery author. That was his “why” so it made him happy. I agree with the quotes that refer to finding your own “why” and you will be happy. Happiness is 100% your choice. And to have choice, one must be free.
Good morning: I want to point out it is unlikely John Stuart Mill was admired by Thomas Jefferson. Mill was twenty years old when Jefferson died and had not published any of his influential works before Jefferson’s death.
Loved this week's message. Years ago I attended The Option Institute in western MA and the core teaching was that happiness is a choice. I still strongly believe that. You have a choice about how to react to things that happen in your life. Certainly people do things that can hurt others but how one reacts to that is the key to true happiness.
I should know better than to read this newsletter while tired. I misread Einstein's quote "If you want to live a happy life, tie it to a goal ... " as "tie it to a goat."
Fleeting and illusive, my cut on happiness is, "happiness comes on little cat feet and sits on silent haunches until you try to capture it". (Apologies to Carl Sandburg)
And this, "It's the small things, fixing a faucet, a cool breeze, the smell of a baby's head, or laughing with the old lady, that bring happiness".
"Ours is the only nation that includes 'the pursuit of happiness' in its founding documents."
That's true, but the kingdom of Bhutan put its focus on "gross national happiness" (as opposed to an economic focus on gross domestic product) in its constitution in 2008. Bhutan's king first suggested that shift in focus in 1972, to conform with Bhutan's 1,000 year culture of Buddhism, based on the idea that "happiness is accrued from a balanced act rather than from an extreme approach." The idea is not pursue happiness directly, but to focus on nine domains that will indirectly bring happiness.
I always thought that Buddhism focused more on suffering than happiness but I guess happiness comes when nirvana (satori in Japanese) is achieved, since that gives liberation from suffering. The idea that happiness cannot be sought directly -- that "happiness pursued eludes" -- resonates deeply with Buddhist teachings, especially in Zen Buddhism. Zen emphasizes that enlightenment or satori cannot be grasped through direct striving or attachment, but instead comes naturally when one lets go of desires and expectations, embracing the present moment fully.
Zen teacher D.T. Suzuki told a fable about a woodsman who came upon a beaver who promised him satori if he killed him with his ax. The woodsman tried many times to kill the beaver but every time he struck at him the beaver would sense the blow coming and dodge it. Finally the woodsman went back to chopping wood and as he brought the ax down on a log the head flew off and killed the beaver. The woodsman achieved satori.
The woodsman's repeated attempts to kill the beaver symbolize the futility of forcing enlightenment through sheer effort. It is only when he returns to his ordinary task — chopping wood with no attachment to the outcome — that the unsought happens and satori is achieved. This reflects the Zen idea that enlightenment often comes when one is least expecting it, in the midst of simple, mindful actions.
This story also aligns with the Zen koan tradition, where paradoxical or seemingly nonsensical tales are used to transcend logical thinking and awaken deeper insight. It's a reminder that the path to true happiness or enlightenment is not about chasing it but about cultivating a state of openness and presence.
Mardy, I admire the comprehensive way you’ve covered the topic of happiness. I’ve always thought that seeking happiness was like trying to squeeze a wet bar of soap; it’s not an end in itself, but a byproduct of something else like serving others or achieving goals. Reflecting on the Thomas Merton quotation: Happiness consists in finding out precisely what the “one thing necessary” may be, in our lives, and in gladly relinquishing all the rest. I have found that the “one thing necessary” changes. Like Merton, the “one thing necessary” for the first part of my life was religion, being a priest. The I left the priesthood and married and the one thing necessary changed. Now that I am a widower, I am seeking what is necessary at this stage of my life to bring the same happiness I experienced earlier. Thanks as always for your insights.
Thanks, Michael, I had the same reaction to Merton's quote when I first read it. I appreciate you sharing your story.
Wonderful, Mardy! Nostalgic too, as my father introduced me to Leo’s writing as a young teen. Thanks for that. All the best, John.
Thanks, John. Just for that, I would conclude your father was a fine man!
Thank you for your inspiring collection of thoughts!!
Truly my pleasure, Jon. Thanks for your kind words.
several connections for me in this week's topic...
first, I have the book: "The Joys of Yiddish" because I bought, for 2 connections. My dad's parents, when they were teenagers, separately, came from Russia to the US, perhaps 1 from a part of Russia that is now Poland - I've never been able to learn exactly. So, I've always had an interest in my heritage. My dad was fluent in at least 5 languages, & could carry on conversations in others...
the other connection w/ the book brings me to the happiness issue - being a volunteer. Both of my parents were volunteers in a variety of ways, always, as I was growing up, so wonderful role models. I've been a volunteer for many organizations my entire adult life, & I'm now 74. The book was purchased because, at the time I was volunteering for an agency that taught English for local adults who had dropped out of high school & for foreigners. Many of those were wanting to pass their US citizenship test - they were so excited when they did so!!
Ok, back to volunteerism. I think just about every list you find having to do w/ 'happiness' includes being a volunteer. I have many quotes about that 😁. It brings happiness to those you serve AND to the individual volunteer.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this week's post, dj. I agree with everything you said about how volunteering contributes to happiness!
Mardy,
You have done a masterful job addressing a very intriguing topic—how to find true happiness. This is a topic that has been debated throughout history. There are many theories about finding happiness. You’ve covered several, and some come very close (i.e., the notion that happiness is found by focusing outwardly rather than on self).
These theories are based on man’s wisdom. Call it pragmatism or secular humanism or whatever you like, it’s man’s ideas for finding happiness. However, the best answers come from God, our Creator. He made us, and He knows how we’re wired. He knows what’s best for us and what would make us most happy. And yes, happiness is something He desires for each one of us!
The Bible has a lot to say about happiness—though it often uses words like joy, blessedness, or contentment, rather than the modern, fleeting idea of "happiness." Biblical happiness is usually tied to a deep, lasting sense of peace and fulfillment that comes from a relationship with God, rather than from external circumstances.
Here are a few key themes and verses:
________________________________________
1. Happiness Comes from God, Not Circumstances
• Psalm 16:11 (NIV):
“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.”
• Habakkuk 3:17–18 (NIV):
“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines... yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.”
→ Even when life is hard, joy is still possible through trust in God.
________________________________________
2. Obedience and Trust Bring Blessing and Joy
• Psalm 1:1–2 (NIV):
“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked... but whose delight is in the law of the Lord.”
• Proverbs 16:20 (NIV):
“Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord.”
→ Biblical happiness is often described as the result of walking in God’s ways.
________________________________________
3. Joy Is a Fruit of the Spirit
• Galatians 5:22–23 (NIV):
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness…”
→ Joy is not just an emotion but a spiritual result of living close to God.
________________________________________
4. True Happiness Is Found in Jesus
• Matthew 16:24-26 (ESV)
Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?
• John 15:11 (NIV):
“I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.”
→ Jesus connects abiding in Him (remaining in His love and teachings) with full, lasting joy.
________________________________________
5. Beatitudes: The “Blessed Are” Statements
• Matthew 5:3–12
Jesus outlines who is “blessed” (often translated as “happy” or “fortunate”)—the poor in spirit, the meek, the peacemakers, etc.
→ These aren’t the usual sources of worldly happiness, but they reflect God’s values and bring deeper fulfillment.
To summarize, happiness is found, not in WHAT, but in WHOM. And that WHOM is not just others, but the ultimate OTHER that always sees, always appreciates, always values.
Thanks for weighing in on this important topic, Scott. I appreciate your adding a perspective that I didn't mention.
Hi Mardy - I love your topic, but for the first time, disagree with your Mystery author. That was his “why” so it made him happy. I agree with the quotes that refer to finding your own “why” and you will be happy. Happiness is 100% your choice. And to have choice, one must be free.
Good morning: I want to point out it is unlikely John Stuart Mill was admired by Thomas Jefferson. Mill was twenty years old when Jefferson died and had not published any of his influential works before Jefferson’s death.
Thanks, Duane. That was my error, plain and simple. I'll correct it in the archives.
Loved this week's message. Years ago I attended The Option Institute in western MA and the core teaching was that happiness is a choice. I still strongly believe that. You have a choice about how to react to things that happen in your life. Certainly people do things that can hurt others but how one reacts to that is the key to true happiness.
Thanks, Barbara. I've always liked that saying as well, but in my mind I always modified it to: "Happiness is the result of your choices."
I should know better than to read this newsletter while tired. I misread Einstein's quote "If you want to live a happy life, tie it to a goal ... " as "tie it to a goat."
Dr Mardy,
Fleeting and illusive, my cut on happiness is, "happiness comes on little cat feet and sits on silent haunches until you try to capture it". (Apologies to Carl Sandburg)
And this, "It's the small things, fixing a faucet, a cool breeze, the smell of a baby's head, or laughing with the old lady, that bring happiness".
Best,
Jamie