The Teachings of Buddha: The Hard Worker of Unhappiness
Today, let us explore how we shape "happiness" and "unhappiness" in our daily lives through the teachings of Buddha. First, allow me to share a thought-provoking phrase:
"Happy people make an effort to feel happiness. Unhappy people make an effort to feel unhappiness."
At first glance, this phrase seems simple, but it holds a profound truth. The "happiness" or "unhappiness" we feel in our daily lives is not solely determined by external circumstances but is largely shaped by the habits and mindset within our hearts.
What Differentiates Happiness from Unhappiness?
According to Buddha’s teachings, happiness and unhappiness do not stem from external factors but from within ourselves. However, many people believe, "I’ll be happy if I have more money," or "Unhappiness will disappear once I succeed."
Why are so many of us trapped in this way of thinking? The answer lies in our habit of seeking happiness in external sources.
Buddha taught:
"Those driven by desires will find new desires arising the moment their current ones are fulfilled. It’s like a bottomless well."
The Habits of the Mind Determine Fate
Have you ever thought about how daily habits influence your emotions and life? For instance, imagine someone who starts their day thinking, "Today will be wonderful," versus someone who wakes up thinking, "Another boring day is starting." These two individuals will walk completely different paths in life.
In Buddha’s teachings, it is said that "the mind creates everything." Based on this teaching, the state of mind we maintain daily determines whether we experience happiness or unhappiness.
True Wealth Lies in Mutual Support
In the past, people lived in a world of mutual support. If a neighbor ran out of salt, they would borrow some, or they would share meals together by pooling ingredients. If someone fell ill, the community would rally to help with care, bringing medicine and even preparing warm compresses. This "human connection" brought an undeniable warmth and sense of happiness.
In today’s modern world, some say this "human connection" has faded. While technological advances have made life more convenient, they may also have weakened the bonds between people.
Buddha teaches that "by caring for others, we nurture our own hearts." Having compassion and gratitude for others not only benefits them but also brings happiness to ourselves.
The Power of a Smile
Lastly, let me share an inspiring story. A mother, despite her busy work schedule, cherished a weekly ritual with her child. They would watch a comedy show together, sharing laughter and joy. For this family, that moment became their greatest source of happiness.
Buddha also emphasized that "smiles" and "joy" are fundamental to happiness. Smiling lightens our hearts and positively impacts those around us.
Seeking Inner Richness, Not Material Wealth
Buddha advised us to "let go of attachment to desires and pursue inner peace." In today’s society, material success and wealth are often seen as measures of happiness. However, what truly matters is the richness of our hearts.
If you feel that "something is missing" in your daily life, the cause may not be an external lack but an issue within your inner state.
Happiness is not something far away. It resides in this very moment, within your heart.
Making the Effort to Choose Happiness
To avoid becoming a "hard worker of unhappiness," we must make an effort to choose happiness. By finding small joys in daily life and cherishing them, our lives can transform dramatically.
Please, starting today, adopt the habits of enriching your heart based on Buddha’s teachings. By maintaining a smile, expressing gratitude to others, and cultivating inner peace, you can undoubtedly live a life filled with happiness.
