Happiness

 As a senior male, in relatively good health, married, age 83, I feel qualified to speak for other seniors. From about age 65 (normal retirement age) there is an increasing gnawing on the mind of most seniors.

 There is a yearning for genuine happiness. The demands of a job cease to plague the retiree; the family is on their own; relaxation that includes travel is a distinct possibility and the vision of happiness is real.

 What it will comprise is very ethereal. No more pressures; no more expectations from others. Dreamers, all. None-the-less happiness is something hoped for.

 From the same age 65 most seniors think seriously of their mortality. They want longevity. To live many more years. An accident or serious illness is not considered.

 The Psalm 90: verse 10 states that mankind’s allotted years are three score and ten (70). Insurance companies project that both men and women will live close to 80 years. Hopefully fifteen more years beyond 65.

 But in Genesis 6:3, it states that humans can expect to live 120 years. That’s fifty-five more years. That’s real good longevity. (37 years for me)

 Let’s limit this article to the first desire and goal-HAPPINESS.  Right off the bat, we can say that it is subjective. In general, what is happiness for me may not be happiness for you. It is based on individual interpretation.

 One thing we know for sure about happiness. It is a by-product. It is not to be sought in itself. It is experienced because of something else.

 Sadness and happiness are similar in this respect. Sadness is a by-product. It is experienced because of illness, the loss of a loved one, the economy, world events, etc.

 There is a singular difference. Sadness is precipitated by events affecting us. Happiness most often is the result of something we do. An achievement, a relationship, a new baby, satisfying a hunger (meal), listening to music, watching a sunset or sunrise, doing something for others, etc. It comes because of our actions.

 Lowering our expectations is a good way to increase times of happiness. Years ago, Jack Benny, the legendary comic, visited regularly with his cronies (like George Burns) in their favorite restaurant in Beverly Hills, Calif.

 One day he was late and the group knew he had received a multi-million dollar increase in salary. They decided to ignore it, no mention of it; let him stew.

 He rushed in, obviously exited and happy. With somber faces they watched and finally he said, “Gentleman, I’ve just had the greatest experience.” Now get this. “I’ve just had THE BEST GLASS OF WATER IN MY LIFE.” They all were overwhelmed. A good example for us. What does it take to make you or me happy?

 Stella (my wife) has a low threshold for happiness. If she buys an item, priced high, that’s on sale for a minimal amount, she is radiantly happy for days.

 She’s also excited for weeks in the anticipation of going to Laughlin and playing the PENNY slots.

 Believing what I’ve just written, I plan my own happiness by: finishing this article, reading a good book, watching a funny movie, having lunch with a good friend, watching people, practicing my magic, planning future activities, etc. Of course, not all at once.

 Cultivate laughter. IT STIMULATES HAPPINESS. Norman Cousins, years ago proved that laughter triggers the secretion of endorphins from the brain. It in turn eases body aches and pains.

 When I give lectures on cruise ships I always begin with a joke. Then I urge the audience to share it with their table companions. It’s amazing how the joke gets around the ship. Laugh a little and live a lot happier.

 Someone has said that happiness is the spice of life. Tasteless food is horrible. Spices add to its taste and our enjoyment. (from salt, pepper to basil and garlic)

 Happiness is truly the spice that enhances living.

Amen. Selah. So be it.

 

WORDS TO THINK ABOUT:
G. W. Abersold Ph.D