Happiness is the visible sign on our faces of any attainment, and it is the basis of a fulfilling life. But there is a difference between temporary happiness and lasting happiness based on a purposeful and successful life. True and lasting happiness is that based on recognition of one’s spiritual identity and the elevated vision for the self and others it fosters. The vibrations of spiritual happiness of such souls reach others, who find strength, support and peace in their company.
Happiness is of several kinds. There are those who remain happy and content with themselves. Then there are those who find happiness in the company of others. The third kind are happy because of the work they do.
What robs us of happiness? We may be wealthy and have all facilities, but if we do not know how to use the money or facilities well, they are wasted, or we do not get their full benefit. This causes disappointment and sorrow: “Such is my fate”, we think.
The other reason for unhappiness is jealousy on seeing the good fortune of others. Neither disheartenment nor jealousy allows us to remain happy. To remain happy, we need to recognise our strengths and specialities, develop them, and thereby grow. Looking at the qualities of others and being jealous does not help in any way. The method to develop our own good qualities is to use them. As they get polished with use, success comes more easily, and our sense of self-worth increases, resulting in great satisfaction.
B.K. Usha is a Rajyoga
teacher at the Brahma
Kumaris headquarters in Abu Road, Rajasthan.