Happiness is so elusive. It does not depend on material
things although being comfortable financially does make
life a lot easier. My father's mother was one of the happiest people I have ever known. She had terrible losses
in her life. Three of her eight children died during her lifetime. She grieved terribly but optimism and hope returned. She was temporarily down but not out for the
count. She had few material things beyond a hat for church
and one decent outfit. Her furniture was what we call now mission or Stickly style but then it was just old.

She was at peace with herself. Psychologists say that we
construct ourselves by our own actions and form our self
concept combined with experience. Her early ones must have
been positive and loving because she was such a loving
person. Her grown children never went long without seeing
her and confiding in her.

There is undoubtedly a biological basis for happiness. I
think she was blessed with a large supply of seritonin.
Being madly in love floods us with dopamine and norepinephrine. Runners get the same feeling, called a
runners high. Runners may have to keep increasing the distance they run to get the rewarding effect.

One needs to be blessed with the biological component. There are a lot more factors also.


What I really think accounts for happiness is socialization.
We need a network of family and friends that we talk and
interact with. Sharing thoughts and ideas and helping
when and where we can. My grandfather used to get very
jealous because Mr. Biggs and Mr. Gray always stopped by
to visit with her when they were passing the house. Teenagers did the same. It just made you feel good to be
with her.

Some psychologists think happiness comes from goal oriented
behavior. Some from seeking pleasure and avoiding pain.
What is your take on this elusive concept? I would love to
know.