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I came across an interesting quote made by a psychologist named Theodor Reik more than 50 years ago. “In order to be happy oneself, it is necessary to make at least one other person happy.” He went on to say, “The secret to human happiness is not in self-seeking, but in self-forgetting.” What Dr. Reik is saying that we humans do not have the capacity within our individual selves to make us happy. Rather, we have to reach out to others and touch them in ways that make them happy before we can be happy. This means that if we focus on making others happy, our own happiness will take care of itself. And, the more people we make happy, the happier we’ll be. So, take the time to reach out to those around you and touch them in ways that make them happy–smile, say something that brightens their day, hand them a flower, give them a hug, shake their hand or pat them on the back. I challenge each of you to do this for just one day and at the end of that day, take stock of how you feel about yourself. You’ll find that Dr. Reik is dead on!
Dear Ross,
Dr. Reik certainly has a point, and I agree, making others happy, or just “doing” for others usually makes me happy.
On the other hand, I find that I’m often quite happy and content when I’m alone.
You and I both know that a good doctor’s report can make us happy to the point of joyous…
I also find I’m happy working with my hands to create something (a painting, a stained glass, a craft ornament, etc).
Just watching other happy people being happy makes me happy too. For instance, watching kids (or pets) frolicing in the park, or watching my favorite athletes triump.
And I find myself happy in solitude, sitting on my back porch enjoying coffee, sunshine through the trees, the birds, and the spring breeze. And the happiness in prayer and gratitude…
It takes a village to raise a child, it doesn’t take a villiage to make a person happy…
Best,
George
PS I do try to lift up people I’m around, at least with a smile and a greeting… g
Hi George!
Thank you so much for you excellent and insightful comments regarding my Weekly Reminder. You gave me a lot to think about. Keep the comments coming.All the best to you, Ross