By Lisa Cypers Kamen.
Every day we are surrounded by illusion. The illusion of television, or images we interpret and even those magic tricks that entertain and enthrall at our children’s parties.
We love illusion, but illusion is one of those elements that make it difficult for us to feel happy if we don’t recognize that happiness is an inside job.
Have you ever noticed that when you are single, the couples around you laughing and enjoying each other magnify your singleness? What happens when you see a couple bitterly fighting or dragging their grocery bags as they glare at each other? Does that make your singleness an asset?
Is happiness an illusion? Is it based on a set of external conditions and circumstances?
The answer in this case is yes – that happiness is an illusion. It’s not real. It’s temporary and based on a bunch of conditions that may or may not be true.
Happiness that is cultivated from the inside is lasting and true. It doesn’t depend on looks, money, other people, a fancy car or a large house. It comes from within and knowing that external happiness is a condition – an illusion, if you will, can make the difference between a happy life and a life searching for meaning.
.jpg){kind=avatar}
Thanks for an excellent post, Lisa.
When I was single I was often grateful for it. I did not envy those who were married.
I look at life differently now, though. I got married on February 17. Every day my husband and I work at being happy. How I wish the days could be expanded as easily as an accordion.
B. Lynn Goodwin
http://www.writeradvice.com
Author of You Want Me to Do WHAT? Journaling for Caregivers
Nice points about real happiness emerging from inside, Lisa. Sometimes, we all forget that we need to build things from the inside if we want them to last. Thanks for the reminder!