The Freedom of Happiness: 3/22
From the journal March 2022:
In the relentless hustle of life, I think we often find ourselves chasing after the elusive concept of happiness. We scroll through social media, observing curated snapshots of joy, success, and fulfillment, and we can’t help but wonder: What does it all truly mean? What is the essence of happiness? As I sit here, reflecting on this question, I am drawn to a powerful truth: true happiness is grounded in freedom.
But let’s be clear about the kind of freedom I’m talking about. It’s not the reckless freedom that leads us to destroy our own bodies and minds, nor is it the kind of freedom that seeks to dominate and exploit the natural world. No, the freedom I yearn for is much more profound; it’s the freedom to simply enjoy life. It’s the freedom to love without reservation, to experience the world with open arms, and to cultivate the kind of joy that nourishes our spirits.
In a world that constantly demands our attention and energy, I often find myself caught in a whirlwind of busyness, rushing from one obligation to the next. I become so engrossed in my work, my responsibilities, and my endless to-do lists that I forget to pause and breathe. I forget to savor the little moments that make life beautiful—the laughter shared with friends, the warmth of a hug, the joy of watching a sunset unfold. In this frenetic pace, I can risk losing sight of what truly matters.
This is where the concept of freedom becomes essential. To be truly happy, we must free ourselves from the burdens of hatred, despair, jealousy, and infatuation that can cloud our minds and poison our hearts. We must learn to let go of the toxic emotions that weigh us down, allowing space for love, compassion, and understanding to flourish.
Freedom also means reclaiming our time. It means recognizing that our most precious resource is not our wealth or our possessions, but the moments we spend in the company of those we love. It’s about carving out time to nurture our relationships, to connect deeply with others, and to take care of one another. This quality of being—this ability to be present and engaged—is what truly enriches our lives.
In my own life, I have learned that when I prioritize this kind of freedom, my happiness happens easily. It’s a conscious choice to step away from the noise, to create boundaries that protect my time and energy, and to engage in the activities that truly bring me joy. Whether it’s spending a quiet afternoon in nature, immersing myself in a good book, or simply enjoying the company of loved ones, these moments of freedom become the foundation upon which my happiness is built.
And yet, I recognize that this is not always easy. The world is filled with distractions, expectations, and obligations that tug at our attention. It can be tempting to get swept away, to succumb to the pressures of productivity and success. But I believe that the path to true happiness lies in resisting that temptation. It requires a commitment to ourselves—a promise to prioritize our well-being and our joy.
I MUST remember that happiness is not a destination to be reached but a state of being to be cultivated. It’s about finding the freedom to enjoy the journey, to embrace the present moment, and to connect with ourselves and others on a deeper level. It’s about creating a life that reflects our values, our passions, and our desires. In embracing this kind of freedom, we not only enhance our own lives but also contribute to the well-being of those around us. When we take the time to nurture our happiness, we become more present, more compassionate, and more capable of lifting others up. Our quality of being improves, and in turn, we create a ripple effect that can transform our communities and the world.
With love and intention…
