HAPPINESS QUOTIENT

‘Happiness….’ its mention brings joyfulness and exhilaration to all.  Happiness is believed to be a state of mind characterized by emotions associated with optimism, positivity, contentment and exhilaration.

A recent news report mentioned: “Nordics are always winning the happiness race. Finland took the top spot for the fifth year in a row, followed by Denmark, Switzerland, and Iceland.  People say it is  because they are small, homogenous, and wealthy.”

While it is fair enough to admit that people are happy when they are taken care off well by the governments, have substantial incomes, pensions, parental holidays, sound health care, unemployment benefits and maintenance for the ill and disabled, the other side of the argument is also valid - warmer temperatures and bright sunny days bring in greater happiness to people than long, dark and depressing winters.

Here is an interesting anecdote:

Little Laya was holidaying in India with her parents. While driving through the city roads, she watched young and older children playing under the glaring sun; they were scantily dressed, a little grimy too, however, their eyes were radiant.  Alongside them were patched-up tents, aluminum- utensils and brown-black mongrels. An elderly lady was resting on the pavement, with her head covered by a faded old cloth.  Laya’s  mom pointed out that they were poor people who lived on the pavement.  Almost at once, the four year old retorted – but they are all happy! 

Harmony amidst the chaos and uncertainties!

The fleeting scene exuded a picture of enjoyment for the little girl.  Enjoying with peers was an act of freedom and joy, which did not come easily in other countries. ‘Play dates’ were necessary, parents had to fix the dates with their friends’ in order that their children could spend time at the friend’s place.

Well, does luxurious living bring in happiness? Many of us can recall the film “Richie Rich” - the poor little rich boy who had everything except ‘companionship.’ And how jubilant he was at the end, reunited with his parents and in the company of his ‘humble’ friends with whom he had longed to play baseball at one time.

Happiness means different things to different people: to a fulfilled personality, it could imply sharing  a hearty meal with friends and family, to a materialist, happiness implies saving to fill the ‘proverbial’ seventh jar with half-filled gold.  By and large, people who have an optimistic view of life are generally happy, they have greater contentment and acceptance of challenges that life offers, even though doubts, apprehensions, feelings of loneliness and anger can haunt them occasionally.

Writers and lyricists wax eloquently about happiness.  Borrowing the lyric from  a renowned comedian and singer -

 

 “Happiness, happiness, the greatest gift that I possess

I thank the Lord I’ve been blessed

With more than my share of happiness…”

(also published in medium.com)