Cultivate Happiness
Mar 07, 2025
Value and being happy are choices we make every day. Too often, we find ourselves caught in a loop of seeking validation from others or measuring our happiness by external circumstances. Some people are never satisfied, no matter what we do or how hard we try. You've probably heard things like, “This is a nice casserole, but where’s dessert?” or “This is a nice visit, but you never stay long enough.” Or maybe someone has said to you, “This is a nice [insert whatever you gave or did], but where are the [insert their expectations]?”
It can feel deflating when we give our best efforts only to hear that what we’ve done isn’t enough, or that others aren't satisfied. But here's the thing: it’s not about the other person's response, it’s about how you choose to feel. All of us, at some point, have felt undervalued or unappreciated, but the answer isn't found in other people's approval. The answer lies in choosing happiness and making an effort to seek joy, even in the face of challenges.
We can choose to cultivate charity, a loving attitude toward ourselves and others, and seek God's guidance in everything we do. Happiness isn't something that just happens—it’s a state of mind that takes effort and intention. It’s easy to feel gloomy or negative, but it requires energy and focus to be happy. It’s about shifting your mindset and focusing on the positive.
A Thought to Inspire
The Tale of the Forest’s Happiness
Once upon a time, in a lush, green forest, there lived a wise old owl named Oliver. Oliver had lived for many years and had seen countless seasons come and go. He was known for his wisdom and ability to stay calm no matter what happened in the forest. Whether it was a stormy night or a sunny day, Oliver always seemed at peace.
One autumn afternoon, the animals of the forest gathered in the clearing for their annual meeting. There was Benny the squirrel, who was always rushing around gathering nuts, and Ruby the rabbit, who loved to hop from one place to another, always seeking adventure. Then there was Gracie the deer, who always had a calm and gentle demeanor, but lately, she seemed troubled.
"I don’t understand," Gracie said with a sigh, “It feels like I can never be truly happy. No matter how many flowers I admire or how many peaceful moments I have, it always seems like I’m looking for something else. The other animals don’t seem to understand. Benny is always collecting more nuts, Ruby is always on the go, and I feel like I’m stuck.”
Oliver the owl listened carefully, and then, in his deep voice, he spoke.
“Gracie, my dear,” he said, “Happiness doesn’t come from what you have or where you go. It comes from how you see things. Let me show you.”
The owl flew to a nearby tree and, with a flick of his wings, gathered all the animals around. He invited them to join him on a short walk through the forest.
As they walked, Oliver pointed out the simple wonders of the forest—how the sunlight filtered through the leaves, how the breeze played in the trees, and how each animal contributed in their own way to the harmony of the forest.
"Look around you," Oliver said. “Each of you has something unique to offer. Benny, you gather the food that nourishes the whole forest. Ruby, you bring energy and joy wherever you go. Gracie, your gentle presence calms others. And as for me, I offer wisdom and watch over you all.”
The animals paused to reflect, and in that moment, they realized something important. Happiness wasn’t found in rushing around or trying to please others. It was found in appreciating what they already had and what they could give to others. It was about being grateful for the moments of calm and beauty, not always looking for something more.
