The Quest for Happiness and Life's Purpose: A Yearning and Realization
Retrospectively, the journey towards happiness and a sense of purpose has spanned a remarkable duration. This exploration, characterized by periods of intense pursuit and eventual stability, took a total of 21 years, with a significant period of reflection and uncertainty following that. It is a journey that involves a deep dive into the human experience, a recognition of our inherent capacity to choose happiness, and a realization that perhaps, life itself is the primary purpose.
The Journey of Striving and Stability
The narrative begins with a chronological breakdown of the 21-year journey. For the first 12 years, the quest for happiness and purpose was marked by periods of on-and-off striving. This phase was a rollercoaster of various levels of intensity, each phase leading to a deeper understanding and a gradual progression towards stability. Following this, an additional 8 years were dedicated to developing a sense of stability, where the pursuit of happiness became more managed and consistent. This stability phase was eventually followed by a phase of uncertainty, where a perceived sense of happiness began to slip, lasting for approximately a year.
A Lifelong Quest
At the age of 60, the pursuit of happiness and life's purpose took an unexpected turn. The realization that happiness, in its essence, is simple yet profound, lies in the recognition of emotions and the ability to fully engage in life. The purpose, contrary to what many might believe, is not a grand and lofty goal. Instead, it is the act of living life to the fullest, cherishing every moment, and understanding that happiness resides within us, accessible with a simple shift in perspective.
Personal Reflection and Realization
One evening in my late 60’s, a simple yet profound realization hit me upon looking in the mirror. Frowning, as I often do, felt more like a reflection of the realm of Hell, while smiling highlighted the beauty of Heaven. This realization underscored the power of our emotions and the ability to transform our state of being with a mere change in facial muscles. This self-illumination emphasizes the fundamental truth that happiness and peace are within us, accessible at any moment.
My Purpose in Life: Present and Choice
Regarding my life's purpose, I have come to the conclusion that it is not about a grand narrative or a specific goal. Instead, it is about being present and appreciating the moments as they come. Current engagements in teaching and creativity have brought immense satisfaction. However, beyond that, the central character of my life seems to be the embodiment of presence and choice. I am no longer seeking to play any specific role but simply existing in the moment, allowing others to see me as the purpose they might find in me.
Reflecting on School and Purpose
From a young age, school held a special place in my heart. Success in school may have been a motivating factor, but my true affinity for school was its inherent happiness. Each year, the anticipation of the first day of school was a source of immense joy, leading me to a profession in teaching. Teaching, a role filled with challenges, has provided a considerable sense of fulfillment. Another significant purpose in my life is my creative endeavors, whether it's writing, creating video courses, or any form of creation that brings me happiness.
Conclusion
This journey, marked by a series of realizations, has been both challenging and enlightening. The realization that happiness is within us, and the simple act of choosing to be happy, has provided a profound sense of clarity. The purpose of this quest, perhaps, is not to discover a grand narrative but to live fully in the present and cherish every moment.