Dear Reader:
I have come to believe that we mostly live in the margins between despair and desire. We all despair that which we suffer; no one is exempt. Whether a life-altering disappointment or momentary displeasure, it is natural to seek that which is beyond the pain – a place that surpasses mere endurance, a place of peace and desirability.
In the grand search and struggle against despair, where is your happiness found; what is your heart’s desire?
When thinking about that which makes us happy, let’s turn to Aristotle, a Greek philosopher, and his guide to the four levels of happiness. First, we all seek to obtain material goods: a shiny scratch-free car, a slenderizing outfit, or the much-awaited living room furniture. Upon receipt, sheer genuine happiness is found; however, the happiness seeker must remember that material goods are the lowest level of satisfaction because they are finite! Remember, cars dull and eventually become scratched, clothes go out of fashion, and furniture soils with use. The second level, happiness from comparison, seeks admiration through competition and success. Our egos are happy we succeed or when we are better than our competitors. Self-gratification, the result of hard work and diligence to the task at hand, is often well-earned. The opposing end to this type of happiness is to become excessively competitive. In doing so, we may offend and become alienated from others. Remember, dignity comes from being made in the image of God, not in our ability to be superior. Thirdly, happiness comes from doing good, making the world a better place. Parents who nurture, teachers who teach, carpenters who build contribute to the betterment of another. Happiness achieved through acts of goodness is precious; however, the do-gooder must remember others may reject our loving actions, resulting in the feeling of gloom.
What is the answer? The reader has observed a repeated theme: Happiness is possible but is fleeting and finite. Providentially, one more level is within reach, seeking happiness through transcendental perfection. In other words, God and His gift of faith, hope, and love. It is awe-inspiring to seek that which is eternal, to find “a peace that surpasses all understanding” (Philippians 4:7).
Some final thoughts: What is calling you? Do your time and talents lead to material wealth, ego-satisfaction, works of goodness, or do you seek that which is eternal? Amidst your prayers for health and well-being, pray for the grace of faith, hope, and love, and watch your happiness abound.
Act of Faith:
O my God, I firmly believe
that you are one God in three divine Persons,
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
I believe that your divine Son became man
and died for our sins and that he will come
to judge the living and the dead.
I believe these and all the truths
which the Holy Catholic Church teaches
because you have revealed them who are eternal truth and wisdom,
who can neither deceive nor be deceived.
In this faith I intend to live and die.
Amen.
Act of Hope:
O Lord God,
I hope by your grace for the pardon
of all my sins
and after life here to gain eternal happiness because you have promised it
who are infinitely powerful, faithful, kind,
and merciful.
In this hope I intend to live and die.
Amen.
Act of Love:
O Lord God, I love you above all things
and I love my neighbor for your sake
because you are the highest, infinite, and perfect
good, worthy of all my love.
In this love I intend to live and die.
Amen.
(More prayers found at www.usccb.org)
The Catholic Thinker Movement 