Consciously Choosing Happiness

When we are young, we ‘re oblivious to all that is going around us, outside of immediate touch and sight. Things such as tomorrow or next year, that assignment due next week, that dreadful meeting in the afternoon or that debt we can’t pay off etc. Children however don’t think about the worrisome uncertainties of the future, but instead, (partly due to immaturity) focus on the very present moment. Thereby first reducing the anxiety and worrisome thoughts themselves, secondly gratifying the happiness or joy that exists in the present moment.

But does that mean we should become dull and oblivious to all that is going around the world in order to protect ourselves? no. I would say that is quite selfish and irresponsible. We are adults because we are aware, and it is only natural that we become like this. When we do become aware, we start to see all the sadness and the things that are wrong in this world. I mean, how can we not? it’s so evident. Some things make me mourn with tears and pain that rips me in to pieces. Yes in the day to day living, we occasionally experience heights of joy, but life sometimes doesn’t seem as good as it used to be.

It took me a few ups and downs and searching to come to this simple conclusion: as much as we are inevitably aware of all that is the opposite of joy and happiness, we must also try and consciously fill our minds with what’s true (for truth shall set us free), whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, excellent, and praise-worthy (Philippians 4:8). Thinking about these things will for sure make us happy. We must make time for all that make us happy in our daily lives, as best as we can among the numerous responsibilities we have. We seemed to have a natural tendency to complain, to be sad, to look at all the evil and the bad and dwell on it, unlike children who can focus on what is good, now. Therefore, when we find ourselves unable to enjoy the gift of the present, it only makes sense for us to consciously and consistantly make an effort to be happy and thinking about good things and doing things that make us feel good. Maybe then, would it become so natural to us that we don’t have to try too hard to be present in the moment and be happy. While we must have a sense of direction and awareness of the troubles that present to us, we must not dwell on it to the point where we lose the joy that God had granted us. After all, we can rest on this promise: “we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” Romans 8:28. Yes there are all kinds of horrible things happening in this world, but God says he will work it out for the good of those who love him. So we should focus on what we can do with the strength that God had allowed us, and leave the rest to God and be at peace.