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1. Happiness is by definition the state to
which all aspire. For most, that state is one of deep and lasting
pleasure.
2. Such pleasure is not to be confused with
transitory pleasure, which comes and goes, while happiness, to be truly
happiness, must be a state that is far more stable and
certain.
3. Nor should such pleasure be confused with
the avoidance of pain, for those who strive to avoid pain must also of necessity
avoid happiness, which lies in the same direction as pain and is part of
the same landscape.
4. Although most pursue transitory pleasures
and seek to avoid pain, we know well that such behavior does not bring us
happiness.
5. The deepest and most lasting pleasure is derived
from the act of being, and is available to all at all times and under all
circumstances.
6. Happiness therefore comes about through continuous
awareness of the beauty and goodness of being. Such awareness, however, is
difficult to sustain.
7. The principles of wisdom are inborn faculties
that bring us to an awareness of the beauty and goodness of being and help
us to sustain it.
8. To the extent that we are happy, we have the
will to survive despair. Paradoxically, however, those who are most happy
have the least fear of death.
Next: The Principles
of Wisdom: Freedom
Previous: The Attributes of Wisdom: Basis in Human
Nature
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Wisdom: Table of Contents |
