Tales of the Talking Tiger

“I would be happy if…”

Ross Gittins from The Age wrote an article way back in 2002 on the topic of happiness (read the article here). I need to thank my Dad for passing on this article – it’s been a great thought provoker. Quoting several researchers, three main steps are highlighted for those seeking happiness:

- we need good friends and family.
- we need to be involved in activities that we enjoy and value.
- we need to train our minds to view the world in a positive way.

As Gittins makes clear, these tips aren’t cutting edge – most of us know that these things, particularly having quality relationships, will make us happy (or at least happier). Yet knowing these things doesn’t make us happy, if other stresses and activities of life take priority.

Interestingly, the point was also made in the article that “in study after study, actively religious people are happier…For many people, faith provides a support community, a sense of life’s meaning, feelings of ultimate acceptance, a reason to focus beyond self and a timeless perspective on life’s woes”.

I was speaking with a friend recently and we were discussing religion. He explained that he was keen to investigate religion and discover truth and the bigger picture of life, but he simply doesn’t have time. He has work, family and other commitments, all demanding his time and attention. I sympathise with my friend and agree that life is busy, often too busy.

Yet surely we must find time to escape the busyness and ponder the bigger questions – the meaning of life, our purpose in existence, and how to live a fulfilling life. In making this quest a priority, we can shape our life around the answer, and live a life that is truly satisfying.